We've just launched a national partnership with the Careers and Enterprise Company to recruit 500 senior HR professionals to work with schools. As part of the Enterprise Adviser Network, our members will work with other senior business volunteers to help schools understand the local labour market and develop a whole school careers education strategy.

Announcing the partnership, Peter Cheese, CEO, CIPD, said:

'Far too often we hear about young people who leave school unprepared for the challenges of working life. We know that one way to overcome these barriers, and help bridge the gap between education and work, is to ensure that young people receive high quality and sustained careers education, information and guidance throughout their time at school. By engaging with employers to help school leaders understand the local labour market and make full use of the initiatives and support available to them, the Careers and Enterprise Company are putting in place a crucial mechanism that will help future generations fulfil their potential.

As HR professionals, with an understanding of current and future labour market challenges, experienced CIPD members are well placed to volunteer for the role of Enterprise Adviser and I am confident they will have a great deal to offer to the schools they are matched with. We are delighted to be able to partner with the Careers and Enterprise Company on such an exciting programme and look forward to seeing the impact it will have on young people's lives.'

Find out more about the Enterprise Adviser Network job role