The Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) believes better overall guidance about the world of work is crucial in helping the thousands of GCSE students make the right career choices.

The REC says it is imperative for young people to be clear as early as possible as to which career path they want to follow. However, the necessary support and guidance infrastructure that young people need in order to make informed choices is often not in place.

The REC’s chief executive, Kevin Green (left), says: “For all those receiving GCSE results this week, we would recommend taking the initiative by researching possible career routes and speaking to people already working is sector and jobs that might be of interest.

“In the longer term, schools, government and the business community must work together to ensure that future generations of school leavers are better prepared for the world of work and can make more informed choices.”