Careers Month is an initiative of the Central Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network (CGLLEN) and is now in its fifth year.

Speaking at the launch of Careers Month, CGLLEN chief executive officer, David Wheaton said that the initiative aims to open the eyes of young people to the career and life opportunities available in their own local area.

``This includes taking up an apprenticeship or traineeship and if this can happen locally, all the better,'' Mr Wheaton said.

Mr Wheaton said parents often face a hard time trying to guide their children along the right career path, but the model often favoured, of completing VCE and going to university was not always the best option.

``For many students, taking up the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning, with an on-the-job component is the first step to a life-long career.''

Particularly in times of economic downturn, work placements and part-time jobs provide an important buffer against unemployment after young people leave school.

``Fewer than half of all school leavers who go on to university make it through their first year. We want parents to know their children can choose to stay locally and still forge an excellent career,'' Mr Wheaton said.

During Careers Month, more than twenty businesses in the Grampians Pyrenees region will be opening their doors to hundreds of local young people. Tours will demonstrate to students the types of industry operating in their local area and will promote local job opportunities and career pathways.

Parents are welcome to take part in Careers Month and can contact LenZone! on 5358 5766 for more information.