Leaving school and entering the world of college or work is a major step forward in life. To make their way as successful adults, young people need more than academic achievements. They need confidence in themselves as individuals; an awareness of how to build on their strengths and overcome their weaknesses; a set of personal values to support them through relationships and day-to-day decision-making; an understanding of how their behaviour affects not just themselves but others as well; and the maturity to take responsibility for their own emotional welfare. "Future Directions: Practical Ways to Develop Emotional Intelligence and Confidence" is a practical resource book designed to support teachers as they guide their pupils through the exciting and often perplexing period of transition from child to adult. The authors have been practising as personal development trainers and coaches for over 20 years. Their programmes, acclaimed by students of all ages and abilities, are underpinned by the belief that the emotional well-being of the individual is of paramount importance. This theory forms the basis of this book, which introduces, stage by stage, the life skills that are essential to future success. Topics covered include: developing self-knowledge, building confidence, managing stress, communication skills, making choices, and starting work. Each chapter introduces a topic and sets out plans for several sessions, each with enjoyable and challenging interactive exercises designed to encourage young people to think for themselves rather than look to others for solutions. These exercises are intended to raise points for discussion and to help young people explore sensitive issues with the help of a supportive adult. The session plans can be adapted easily to be applied within a particular curriculum or to meet specific needs outside of a classroom setting. The aim of this book is to equip young people with the personal skills they need to meet the future, and to help them explore sensitive issues within the security of the classroom. Working together through the programme, both pupils and teachers will reap the benefits of increased mutual trust and understanding.

From October 2006, age discrimination in employment and vocational training will become unlawful. The law will apply to all workers and to people who apply for work. This law will fundamentally change the way that age is currently used as a criterion for making employment decisions. Coupled with the unprecedented changes in the demography that will effect all organisations, employers will need to change practices and attitudes that are deeply embedded in their organisation. Keren Smedley and Helen Whitten's "Age Matters" provides you with a comprehensive, innovative and positive approach to the changes in the law and demography. The authors explain the advantages and disadvantages to the 2006 legislation and its effect on both retirement practices and pensions. Packed with statistics and perspectives on the ageing workforce (in the UK, EU and countries around the world), the book includes practical advice, models, exercises and training activities to help establish an appropriate response for your organisation. It is those organisations who can look beyond the legislation to manage the value in their older workforce that will thrive. Use this book to understand the implications of demographic change and the employment law issues it raises; to help older employees identify, articulate and adapt to new ways of working; to enable both older and younger employees to work across the generations; and to build an age-inclusive culture. Covering virtually every human resources issue related to the ageing employment pool, this is a must-have resource for anyone involved in human resources, employment planning, organisational development, and training.