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Useful Career Information for Parents and Carers

As a parent you are one of the most influential people in your child’s life and in the best possible position to support your child as they consider their future, review their options and make choices. Here at school, we have a good careers programme providing education, information, advice and guidance. That said, research shows that children look to their parents first when they want career advice. Whilst some young people have a very clear idea of where they see their pathway leading them, others may take a while to decide – you can help by:

Starting the conversation

  • Focus on skills and behaviour your child will need, rather than specific jobs.
  • Talk about goals and what your child finds fulfilling.
  • Be open minded and encouraging.
  • Talk about what careers experiences your child has had at school (lessons, visits, tutor time, citizenship and assemblies).
  • Be patient as your child’s choices may change.
  • Remember it’s your child’s decision on what direction they want to go

We realise it can be challenging to know how to ask the right questions, so here’s our Top Five Tips to get started:

  1. Start with their interests, skills, abilities and values – get them to write them down
  2. Talk about their likes and dislikes of different school subjects
  3. Encourage them to link their skills and interests by using the National Careers Service Skills Assessment
  4. Identify 3 different jobs they may like to explore using the National Careers Service Job Profiles
  5. Share your own experiences and talk about your own job or career and those of the wider family

There are many organisations who offer advice and support to parents at various stages of your child’s career pathway from choosing options in Year 8 or 9, to post 16 choices, university, apprenticeships and funding support.

Useful Links for Parents