South Craven’s MP has welcomed government efforts to improve the standard of careers advice given in schools.

Julian Smith, MP for Skipton and Ripon, said the new guidance would strengthen the need for inspirational careers advice and mentoring to be available to young people.

He said there would be an increased emphasis on real-life experience from employers, who were knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their own careers.

Mr Smith added: “I passionately believe that to help young people from all backgrounds to succeed in life, we need to inspire them with a sense of what they can achieve.

“Every individual deserves to have high expectations set so they can reach their potential.

“This new guidance emphasises the need to provide pupils with a clear view of all the options open to them.”

The changes will come into effect from September this year.