Business chiefs have called for a “new approach” to career guidance for youngsters after a report revealed gaps in the process.

The Association of Colleges (AoC) claims young people could be missing out on exciting career opportunities because of the failures of consultants.

Research in partnership with the Skills Show revealed that 70 per cent of students rely on their parents for advice, while 57 per cent asked teachers.

The AoC said these might not always be the most informed groups of people.

The CBI has campaigned for more information to be given to teenagers of school-leaving age; particularly about vocational options such as apprenticeships.

Neil Carberry, CBI director for employment and skills, said: “Time and again we find too many young people not getting the support they need to make informed choices on their future career.

“We need a new approach that supports schools and colleges to explain the routes open to young people, whether that’s A-levels and university or an apprenticeship.”