HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 2020
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HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 2020
2 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 3
ABOUT SUCCESS
AT SCHOOL
Success at School is a national careers website for students aged 11-19,
as well as their teachers, careers advisors, parents and other influencers.
Young people can learn about their future career options through no-
nonsense careers advice related to their own experiences.
As well as covering topics such as career paths, industries, apprenticeships,
university and employability skills, we connect schools and students to
employers and universities through opportunities on our site and our
interactive forums. Millions of young people and their influencers have
visited our site for advice and information to help them plan for the future.
Go to successatschool.org for more information.
contents 05
08
Choosing a career path
Pathways into work
16
18
Work experience
Gap years
11 University 20 How to future-proof your
child’s career
13 Apprenticeships 21 Subject journeys
14 Employability skills 40 Action plan
Copyright Success at School Ltd 2019
4 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 5
FOREWORD CHOOSING A 1. WORK OUT YOUR
CAREER PATH CHILD’S SKILLS
As our children progress through school and start looking ahead to a life
after education, it can be difficult for parents and carers to know how to There is a world of opportunity out there –
AND INTERESTS
help them navigate the confusing world of career options. For many of us, but for many young people, narrowing down all
the ultimate challenge is knowing how to offer support without projecting the options can be a challenging task in itself.
Sit down together with two pieces
our own career aspirations onto our children. And with so much change of A3 paper and a Sharpie.
– from new apprenticeship schemes, emerging technologies, political and We’ve created a step-by-step process you and
environmental upheaval and the coronavirus crisis – parents can feel in your child can follow to help them focus on the On one piece of paper write down as many
need of a guiding hand themselves. careers that are right for them. It is designed of your child’s interests as you can think of
to help you find that sweet spot where skills together. Use these questions as prompts
Here at Success at School, we’ve developed lots of resources to help
and interests overlap, for your child:
careers advisors and teachers at schools and colleges. But according to
before figuring out
TIVITY
research, parents have by far the biggest influence on young people’s • What hobbies do you have? What do you
career choices. We’ve created this guide to help you take a positive role
how this connects
up with possible AC like to do in your spare time?
in your child’s career journey. We cover all the basics – from university, • What extracurricular activities do you do?
career paths.
apprenticeships and other pathways into work, to work experience and
• If you could pick one thing to do right now,
employability skills. We outline job roles linked to each major school
Your child can what would it be?
subject as well as exploring the jobs of the future.
complete this on their • What would you do on your ideal weekend?
We have also made this guide practical, so you can use it as a tool to help
own or you can work
your child prepare for their future. You’ll find a step-by-step guide to help
on it together On the second sheet, write down as many
them focus on career paths connected to their skills and interests. We’ve
of your child’s skills as you can think of,
even included a worksheet they can work through – or which you can even
with these questions as prompts:
complete together – so that you have made tangible progress as a result
of working through this guide. • What are your favourite school subjects?
You’ll also find at the end of this guide a list of links to resources on our site • What are your personal qualities?
which will help you support your child’s careers development from home E.g. are you a good listener? Do people
during the coronavirus crisis. come to you for advice?
If you like the guide, there’s plenty more resources on our website, • In your most recent school report,
where every week we’re adding new articles written especially for parents what did your teachers say you excelled at?
and carers. We also have an email newsletter for parents which you can • What are your talents? What things can
register for to get tailored advice straight to your inbox. you “just do”? E.g. cooking, coming up
We hope you find this guide useful and wish you and your child with ideas, art.
all the best in their future career journey.
Success at School Team
6 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 7
2. LINK INDUSTRIES 4. PLAN OUT 5. WRITE OUT THE
TO SKILLS AND CAREER PATHS THREE “NEXT STEPS”
INTERESTS FOR THESE JOBS YOUR CHILD WILL TAKE
The next step is to find out Take a separate sheet of A3 for Using step 4 to guide you, come up
about industries and the jobs each job and write the job title with some next steps your child
within them. at the top of the sheet. can take to help them on their
career journey (what they do next
Take another sheet of A3. Browse the Career Use the Success at School site and the internet
Zones section of the Success at School to research the steps needed to pursue these will depend on what stage of their
website and write down those which catch career paths and also the different ways into them. education they’re at).
you and your child’s eye because they contain Have a look at the How to become… articles on
roles which appeal to their skills and interests. the Success at School website for detailed guides For example, they might commit to contacting
to entering a whole range of career paths. employers to find out whether they can visit on
When you have a “short list” of industries
a work experience placement. Alternatively, they
that fit in with your child’s skills and interests, Use these questions as prompts:
might decide to visit particular subject stalls at
take a closer look. Write down • What qualifications are needed? This includes their school/college’s GCSE or A-level
jobs underneath the industry the subject (e.g. English, maths) and level choices event.
name and note the skills (e.g. GCSE, A-level, degree).
they involve and how they Once they have completed these next steps,
connect with your child’s • What experience is required? Are there work you should have another discussion together
interests (e.g. VFX artist – experience programmes available through to work out the next set of steps.
design skills – movie buff). employers or will your child have to be proactive
to get a placement?
Go to: successatschool.org/careerzones
• Are there apprenticeships available?
• Is there a university route into the profession?
3. IDENTIFY THREE Go to: successatschool.org/advice/how-to-become
FAVOURITE JOBS
Look through the list of jobs you
have written down and pick three
that really appeal to your child.
One way of doing this could be to go through
all the roles and give them a rating out of 5,
then pick those with the top rating and repeat
the process to narrow them down to 3.
Once you have picked out your final
3 you can start looking in more
detail at the different routes
into these career paths.
8 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 9
PATHWAYS INTO WORK
The first years of work are a UNIVERSITY APPRENTICESHIPS VOCATIONAL
confusing place for parents trying
to help their children begin a University is a good choice for your child Apprenticeships are a job with pay, training QUALIFICATIONS
if they: and the chance to gain professionally relevant
successful career which fits in qualifications. After a revamp over the last few There are many other vocational options your child
Want the “uni experience”
with their strengths and interests. Living semi-independently, making new
years, they are now a route into high-skilled could pursue through a college course at age 16
professions such as civil engineer, solicitor, or 18.
friends with very different people, joining
Opportunities for school and college leavers are scientist and nurse. Different qualification “brands”
clubs and societies – these are all things that
changing. In the old days, the co-existence of There are four types of apprenticeship:
university can offer. • Including BTEC, NVQ, OCR Cambridge
polytechnic colleges alongside the universities
• Intermediate: Equivalent to 4 GCSEs National or Diploma, each one with a slightly
meant that high-skilled vocational and more Love their subject
• Advanced: Equivalent to 2 A-levels different slant.
heady professions were accessible to many If your child wants to throw themselves into
school/college leavers through different routes. their studies because they love their chosen • Higher: Equivalent to a foundation degree Available at different levels
subject and want to know everything there is or higher • Qualification levels represent different standards
Then the government started focusing more
on university education as the way to create to know about it, university is a good choice. • Degree: Equivalent to a bachelor’s of expertise. Level 3 qualifications (equivalent to
a high-skilled workforce. or master’s degree A-levels) are typically taken at age 16 while level
Want to go into a profession only accessible
4+ require a level 3 qualification so aren’t usually
Now, this is changing. Apprenticeships have via university
taken before age 18.
been developed as an exciting alternative route There are many career paths which have
which offers added benefits to many school been opened up to the apprenticeship route Study through a college course
leavers. University is still a way into (see below) but certain careers are currently • Can be taken via a full-time or part-time college
certain professions and is only accessible via a university degree course. Often, they are included as part of an
better suited to those of (or only widely accessible this way). This apprenticeship programme, sometimes alongside
a more academic nature includes medicine, veterinary medicine, other qualifications.
who want to study a teaching and architecture. • Study on-the-job.
certain discipline for • The option to study for vocational qualifications
love of the subject. is often offered by employers to enable
A record 34.1% of 18-year-olds employees to improve their theoretical
entered university in 2019 understanding of their work.
Over half of 18-30 year-olds have
taken part in higher education
10 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 11
PATHWAYS INTO WORK UNIVERSITY
University is the most popular next step for school 2. To pursue their interests through further study
and college leavers, and with so much attention Some people go on to university because they’re
GAP YEAR next but would also like to gain experience and
earn a wage while they think about what is best
focused on higher education, it can feel like it’s
the only route open to your child.
passionate about a certain subject and want to
know everything there is to know about it. A love
If your child is unsure of what they want to do, for them. University is the best choice for many students. of learning is one of the best reasons to go to
a gap year could be a good choice. A gap year can But it’s important to understand who it is right university.
What are the benefits?
give your child chance to think about what they for and why, so you can help your child make an
want to do with their time – whether that be work, Starting an entry-level job can itself be the This doesn’t mean they can’t plan for their career
beginning of a young person’s career path. If it is informed decision. as well. Flick back to the chapter “Choosing a
further study or a mixture.
a job they care about – or develop an enthusiasm career path”. Find other ways to give yourself
What does a gap year involve? for – they could soon apply for a promotion Why go to university? a career boost through volunteering, doing a
• A job at home. and progress within the workplace summer internship or another kind of work
There are many good reasons for your child to go
• Work experience outside the UK. Can they still progress? to university. But if you think it is an essential step experience placement.
• A volunteering placement overseas. They may have the chance to work towards on the path to career success, you’d be wrong.
• An opportunity to travel. relevant qualifications or could choose With more apprenticeships and school leaver Shouldn’t every student go to uni?
• A break from work or study. later to begin an apprenticeship programmes available than ever before, this simply No. University isn’t for every student, and students
related to the role. isn’t true anymore. should not feel that university is the only route to
Why?
Likewise, if your child is drawn to university a high-skilled career.
• A work-free gap year is a short respite from
because “that’s what everybody does”, “because all
a life of work and study.
• A chance to build life experience through
T-LEVELS my friends are going” or because “it looks like fun”,
For some students, an apprenticeship is better
because it is more practical, allowing them to earn
The T-level is a new qualification which is being encourage them to think again. and gain work experience.
travel and exposure to new cultures.
phased in as an alternative to A-levels over the
• An opportunity to build up funds and For others who want to study an academic
next few years. T-levels combine classroom Here are some good reasons to go qualification full time within an academic setting,
money-management skills through work.
• The chance to gain work experience and
learning with “on-the-job” training and, like to university: or experience some of the other things university
A-levels, lead to UCAS points which can be taken
employability skills in a job. can offer, university may be the better option.
into account in higher-education applications. 1. To gain essential qualifications
• Time to think about what they would like to do next.
3 courses will be on offer from 2020: design, If your child needs a degree to follow their chosen
surveying and planning for construction, digital career path, they’re on the right track. Jobs such
GETTING A JOB production, design and development and
education and childcare. These will be offered at
as teacher, lawyer and doctor generally require you
to have a degree, so university is the logical choice
Another option for your child is to apply for a job selected colleges across the UK. More courses will for you.
immediately upon leaving school/college. be introduced from 2021.
If they haven’t already, your child should
Why? The launch of these new courses may be affected by investigate what kind of degree they need to enter
One reason could be that your child hasn’t made coronavirus. You can find more information on the that profession.
up their mind about what they would like to do Gov.uk website: https://tinyurl.com/UK-T-levels
They should also look at whether they can gain
a degree without going to university, through a
higher or degree apprenticeship. That way, they
can work towards a university degree while getting
paid a salary and gaining work experience. This
option is available for some professions, such as
solicitor and software engineer.
12 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 13
APPRENTICESHIPS
An apprenticeship is a job with training and the qualifications linked to their role. Qualifications are
chance to gain qualifications. As with any job, paid for by the employer. Apprentices do not pay
an apprentice gets paid, but they also take part in anything towards their qualifications.
formal on-the-job training and study for relevant
INTERMEDIATE APPRENTICESHIPS DEGREE APPRENTICESHIPS
1. Students can become experts in the subject 1. Students may not gain technical skills –
they love – through 3+ years of intense, many courses are theoretical instead of practical. • Worth the same as five GCSEs graded 4+. • Equivalent to a level 6 or 7 qualification.
focused study. • Functional skills in English and maths are needed • 2 A-levels grade C+ needed.
2. Students may not get employability skills (students with grade 4+ GCSEs have these). • Foundation degree, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s
2. University can prepare you for a specific – although they can gain these on work • What qualifications can I get? Level 2 NVQ, degree, Level 4-7 NVQ, Higher National Diploma.
career path – although many higher/degree experience during the vacations. National Diploma, National Certificate.
Facts and figures:
apprenticeships now offer training for
3. Contact time is less than at school – with more ADVANCED APPRENTICESHIPS • 90% stay in work or training after their programme.
graduate careers.
of a focus on independent, self-driven study. • 65% remain with the same employer.
• Worth the same as 2 A-levels.
3. Graduates earn more – but they can graduate • Half of parents would encourage their child to start one.
4. Students graduate with a lot of debt – • 5 GCSEs grade 4+, including English and maths,
• 71% of parents believe they provide a better chance
with a higher/degree apprenticeship and earn are needed.
2018 graduates left university with £36,000 of getting a job.
while they study. • What qualifications can I get? Level 3 NVQ,
of debt on average. • Typical course length: 3-6 years.
National Certificate, BTEC.
4. Uni gives students time to gain work
5. Students commit 3+ years of their life – Degree apprentices gain skills employers really want:
experience – during the long summer vacations. HIGHER APPRENTICESHIPS
so your child should consider whether • Problem-solving
5. Students get a taste of independence – 3 more years of education is for them. • Equivalent to a level 4, 5 or 6 qualification. • Creative thinking
by living away from home in student halls • 2 A-levels grade C+ are needed. • Communication
6. Students are not guaranteed a graduate job –
or rented accommodation. • What qualifications can I get? Foundation degree, • Teamwork
many graduates end up in temporary • Leadership
Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, Level 4-7 NVQ,
6. Students gain high-level transferable or entry-level jobs not graduate roles. Higher National Diploma. • Project management
skills – such as analysis, critical thinking, • Research and analysis
7. Lifetime earnings can be higher with an Facts and figures:
communication and problem-solving.
apprenticeship – those with a level 5+ • Some higher apprentices earn as much as £500 Some of the areas apprentices can work in:
7. It can broaden the mind – by exposing apprenticeship typically earn more than per week. • Finance
students to new people, ideas and places. traditional university graduates. • 90% stay in work or training after their programme. • Construction
• 65% remain with the same employer. • Engineering
• Typical course length: 1-6 years. • Law
• 30+ hours per week at work. • Management
Some of the areas apprentices can work in: • Software development
• Accountancy • Childcare • Accountancy
• Construction • Marketing and
• Engineering communications
• Healthcare • Cyber security
• IT • Software development
• Law • Digital marketing
• Management • Public relations
• Manufacturing
You can find an apprenticeship by visiting the Jobs & Courses page on our website at successatschool.org
14 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 15
EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS Organisation Good organisation means being able to plan
ahead, using techniques to manage your own
• Develop a revision plan for their next set
of exams.
and others’ work, ensuring that deadlines • Plan one family event per month.
To succeed in the world of work, employers What are employability skills? are met and making sure that plans turn out
• Save appointments to their phone calendar
will expect your child to have certain basic There is no authoritative list but there is a lot of successfully with every detail catered for.
and set reminders.
employability skills (sometimes called “key skills”). overlap in what skills employers say they want as
These are skills which are needed in virtually every a bare minimum when taking on a new member
Leadership Good leaders motivate others through an • Take on a leadership role within a school
job, regardless of the industry or role – as well as of staff. inspiring vision, by taking responsibility for club or society.
in everyday life. There are plenty of ways your child This is a list of key employability skills we decisions and taking ownership of problems. • Ask others to share their opinions when
can develop these skills at school or in their home recommend your child is able to demonstrate
They also promote good teamwork, are carrying out group tasks in class.
life, even if they don’t have a part-time job. effective communicators and reflect on
when they start applying for work: themselves and others.
Hard work and Hard workers commit themselves to their work • Set a work timetable for the evening.
dedication and keep going through tough problems. They • Take regular breaks during study periods.
HELP YOUR CHILD DEVELOP THIS know how to motivate themselves when they’re
SKILL WHAT IS THE SKILL? • Reward themselves when they complete
SKILL BY ENCOURAGING THEM TO: at a low ebb.
a set number of hours of study or revision.
Communication Good communication is the ability to express • Get a Saturday/evening job.
yourself clearly, verbally and in writing. It also Creativity Creativity skills, also known as creative thinking • Take on a small but unfamiliar creative task
• Write a blog on their favourite topic.
includes the ability to listen to others and skills, essentially means being able to come up such as making birthday cards for the family
• Join a debating society or reading group. with something new. It means looking at things or doing a craft project.
process information accurately.
in a new way. • Create a vlog (video blog) on a topic they’re
interested in and upload to YouTube.
Teamwork Teamwork is the ability to work together with • Join a sports team or other club/society. • Sit down to write 500 words… and see what
others towards a common goal, making the • Take on a creative project with their friends. comes out.
most of the group’s different strengths
• Join an orchestra, band or ensemble.
and abilities.
Numeracy Numeracy is confidence with numbers • Learn one new technique for adding
enabling employees to analyse, interpret and and subtracting (they can find techniques
Initiative Initiative is being proactive, taking responsibility • Take a leading role in a club or society. use numerical information. by searching on Google).
and making decisions for yourself to get things • Start a music, art or drama project • Add up prices in their head instead of using
done, rather than waiting to be told what to do. with their friends. a calculator.
Initiative is gained by trying new things outside
• Create a budget for their pocket money/
our comfort zone.
wages.
Problem-solving Overcoming problems using creativity and • Reflect on how different subjects involve Reliability Reliability means being dependable. Reliable • Commit to a certain amount of study
logic is an absolute must for every employer. problem-solving. workers turn up to work every day, deliver on time each night and reward themselves for
Problem-solving doesn’t just feature in • Break down tasks into manageable chunks. deadlines, are trustworthy and keep their word. sticking to it.
subjects such as maths – problems include
• Take on a Saturday/evening job with a set
conceptualising a design in art or interpreting
timetable.
a poem in English.
Computer / Young people have grown up surrounded by • Practise using Google to answer questions
IT skills technology, but there are a whole host of apps in their home or school life.
and software that can aid our everyday work • Find new apps to help with everyday
by automating tasks or helping us organise our problems such as scheduling events
workload. Students are quick learners when or managing tasks.
it comes to tech, but it’s important that they
• Become more familiar with IT hardware by
know how to find new software to help them
asking them to set up new tech equipment
at work.
for the household.
16 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 17
WORK EXPERIENCE
The skills and experience students pick up during By showing employers that they are enthusiastic
work experience give your child an edge when it and can step up to challenges, your child can also
comes to applying for jobs, showing employers earn themselves good references for future roles.
they have practical expertise related to the role
they’re applying for. Improve chances of gaining employment
They will gain a host of transferable skills they can Research shows that encounters with employers
apply across a range of professional fields as well reduce a young person’s chances of becoming
as technical skills which are specifically relevant NEET (Not in Education, Employment or
to the role. Training). In some cases, a placement can lead
directly to a job offer - if there’s a position
Gaining physical work experience is impossible at available with the employer.
the current time but it is important to think ahead
to the time when physical-distancing measures
have eased.
How to find a placement be able to point you and your child in the direction
of the best places to look.
How to make the most of work To find a work experience placement,
experience your child should: 3. Apply to work experience programmes
What are the main benefits? Work experience is just that – an experience, 1. Follow their passions Look out for companies that run formal work
a taster of the workplace. It doesn’t last long so it’s experience programmes. A lot of the larger
Gain knowledge and practical skills Whatever it is that gets your child out of bed on
important that your child seizes any opportunities companies in the UK offer structured work
Nowadays, having relevant qualifications, although that come their way. They should approach their Saturday mornings could be the very thing that
experience placements to school students;
essential, is only half of the equation. If a potential placement with a broad mind and be prepared to they’d love to do on a work experience placement.
however, competition can be tough. Most of
employer can see that an applicant has the get stuck into anything. Encourage them to ask for What are they interested in? If they’re a music fan,
these placements require applicants to complete
knowledge and practical skills to fulfil their role, opportunities to develop their skills and gain new maybe their perfect work experience placement
an application form, so work with your child on
they have an advantage over someone who only ones. Together, research the organisation they’ll be would be in a music shop? If they’re an animal
this and check their application for spelling and
knows the theory. working for so they know what to expect and can lover, they could contact the local farm, zoo or
grammar mistakes.
focus on areas of interest or importance to them. stables for opportunities.
Provides a taste of the industry 4. Focus on popular industries for work experience
Getting to know the team is a fantastic way for 2. Know where to find out about work experience
Work experience is a good way for you to get a your child to build a network to help them find Look at some of the most common industries
opportunities
taster of what it’s like to work in a specific industry. job opportunities, internships or apprenticeships for school students to do work experience in.
Because placements are temporary arrangements, Start your search by looking for companies in
in future. Encourage them These include:
work experience students are not committing your local area that do the kind of work that your
to ask for feedback on
themselves to working for a company forever, child would like to try. A general Google search • Professional and financial services
their work so they can
giving your child the opportunity to refine what should give you enough information to get them • Teaching
continually improve.
it is that they’re looking for from employment. started. Your child should also be prepared to • Marketing and
work experience near me
proactively contact employers who don’t advertise public relations (PR)
Meet influential people work experience as they may also be able to • Media
accommodate them. • Fashion
Work experience gives students the opportunity
to build up a network of contacts who may be Your child should also have a meeting with their • Art and design
able to help them secure a job in the near future. school careers advisor. Some careers advisors will
have a list of contacts they can provide, or they’ll
18 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 19
GAP YEARS It’s also worth bearing in mind that there are
plenty of green options that don’t involve flying –
to teach, they should take a look at the overseas
internships available through Go Overseas.
an Interrail pass is a cost-effective way for a young They’ll find jobs in areas such as marketing,
What’s a gap year all about? are just some of the sites to look at. We’ve also got person to travel all over Europe. communications, journalism, digital media and
loads of helpful guidance in the gap year section public relations. This will allow them to travel to
Gap years are often associated with travelling, but of Success at School, covering everything from Volunteering and work in countries including Australia, South
there’s so much more your child can do. Gaining what your child should take with them to how they
work experience can be really valuable. Students Volunteering opportunities come in all shapes Africa and Spain.
can plan your travels.
can do this by volunteering on projects overseas, and sizes. If your child is looking for voluntary work If your child would rather have an internship
or finding internships and paid jobs closer to in the UK, websites like Do-it and the National or summer job in the UK, they should sign up
home. If your child isn’t sure whether to go on Council for Voluntary Organisations are good to a website like StudentJob. For students and
to university or go straight into work after school, places to start the search. Your child can find graduates at UK universities, websites like e4s
a gap year can be a good chance for them to opportunities where they can use the skills and RateMyPlacement are also useful. Many top
explore their options. they’ve developed by studying English to make companies advertise paid placements, internships
A traditional gap year may not be possible this
How long does a gap year last? a difference. and graduate schemes on these platforms.
year due to coronavirus – we don’t yet know what Gap year work and study programmes can last There are also plenty of volunteering opportunities
overseas. Gap year providers like Real Gap, Study
the next academic year might look like for school anywhere from two weeks to 12 months, so your
and college leavers. However, if your child will be child can choose a period of time to suit them. Travellers Abroad and Frontier are good places to Travelling and studying is also an option. Forum
leaving school following future academic years, If they want to take a break between school and look at what’s available. Whatever voluntary work Nexus is one provider that offers a summer
you will get something out of this section. university, they’ll need to wait until the following your child is doing, it’s also a good idea to set up programme of studying and travelling. Students
September to join the next intake of students. a personal blog. It’s simple to create a blog using can visit various European cities on its Ultimate
However, they may be able to enrol in a summer the likes of WordPress, Wix, Tumblr or Blogger. Summer in Europe programme and study at top
school before their course starts. This way your child can showcase their written universities along the way. There are financial aid
communication skills. and scholarship options too.
Your child can find out about these direct from
your local university or the university they’re Go Overseas also lists various study abroad
Paid work
Why should your child consider heading to. If they’re going into work or training opportunities, with courses in everything from
your child can probably be more flexible, but make There are lots of places your child can find paid journalism to marketing on offer. In the UK, the
taking a gap year? sure they confirm their start date before they head work during a gap year. If they want to travel, Sutton Trust runs summer schools in various
A gap year isn’t just a chance to take some time off anywhere! teaching English as a foreign language is a great subjects through 13 UK universities. They’re
off and explore the globe. It can be an important option. To get paid for this, they’ll need to take a designed for students who are aged 17 or 18, and
opportunity to gain work experience, whether short TEFL qualification first. If they don’t want are free, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
that’s as a volunteer working on projects abroad
or finding internships and paid jobs at home.
So what can your child do on their
gap year?
It’s key that they use their time well and make
Who can help your child plan their a plan to give the year structure. Travelling is a
popular choice, but there are lots of other options.
gap year? Gap Year Association is a good website to explore
There are a range of gap year providers which to find out what’s on offer. Some even allow
offer organised travel, work and volunteering students to travel and gain valuable experience:
programmes, as well as useful planning tools. win-win!
Frontier, Real Gap and Gap Year Association20 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 21
HOW TO FUTURE-PROOF SUBJECT JOURNEYS
YOUR CHILD’S CAREER Art and Design
We’ve entered the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Humanity also faces the unprecedented challenge A background in art and design will equip your child for work in a huge and varied range of
which according to the World Economic Forum of the climate and ecological emergency. industries, paving the way to careers in illustration, special effects design, gaming, fine art,
means “both huge promise and potential peril”. Although this presents a huge threat, it will also graphic design or gallery curation.
Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) will lead create all sorts of jobs across every area of society.
to the disappearance of some jobs while creating Fields to look out for include renewables and
JOB OF THE FUTURE
many more in the tech sphere. energy, housing, agriculture, health and transport.
Bus drivers, builders and even accountants could Our response to climate change will also create Augmented reality/virtual reality designer
be replaced by computers and robots, while jobs across the Civil Service Augmented reality is about overlaying fictional digital
new roles such as AI engineer, human-machine and local government. elements onto real environments – like in Pokémon Go
– while virtual reality is an entirely computer-generated
interaction designer and process automation world. It is revolutionising not only the world of gaming
specialist will all emerge. Whatever implications but also tourism, medicine, education and many other
changing technology has for the world of work, areas of work and life. Combined with technical skills,
most experts agree that this new revolution shows art and design students could use their creativity in this
role to imagine the worlds we will occupy in these new
all the signs of being even more dramatic than the augmented realities.
first three.
EXAMPLE CAREER PATH
Public Sector & Government › Community arts worker
Salary: £16,000 – £30,000
Career: Community arts workers use their artistic skills
to engage people in the local community, promoting
artistic activities to groups and individuals in order to
improve their quality of life. They tend to deal with
social problems – for example, with young offenders
5 skills art and design will give your child
or homeless people.
1. Drawing
EDUCATION
2. Research
At 14: GCSE Choose art and design 3. Confidence
At 16: A-level / equivalent
Choose art and design A-level 4. Independence
At 18: Apply for an art-related degree or directly to a 5. Creativity
job – most employers consider experience and skills to
be more important than formal qualifications
OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER
Jobs directly linked to art and design:
• 3D artist
English language, psychology
Common career paths for art and design students:
EMPLOYERS
• Illustrator
Self-employment • Commercial art gallery manager
Local government › councils, arts groups
Career paths you might not have thought of:
Museums and galleries
• Interior designer
• UX/UI designer22 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 23
Biology Business
The study of biology provides a solid foundation for a wide range of careers, with key skills Studying business prepares students for many jobs, providing an understanding of leadership
such as problem-solving, analysis and communication being very transferable. and people skills as well commercial awareness and problem-solving.
JOB OF THE FUTURE JOB OF THE FUTURE
Antibiotic Engineering Automation implementation specialist
The widespread and sometimes reckless use of Automation poses a number of issues for businesses.
antibiotics to treat human and animal disease means On the one hand it can make them more efficient
that some bacteria are becoming resistant to the drugs and therefore profitable; on the other it’s expected to
we use to kill them. We need to create new antibiotics lead to job losses. Managing the transition to greater
to replace the old ones to avoid a return to the pre- automation will need specific skills. Businesses need
antibiotic days when routine infections could lead to to understand the new technology and how best to
death. Microbiologists create antibiotics by testing use it for their company. Automation implementation
newly discovered chemical compounds to see if they specialists need to manage people carefully, which
can provide resistance to bacteria, so biology students’ might include retraining or upskilling workers who will
analytical and lab skills leave them well-placed to pursue lose existing jobs due to automation.
a career in antibiotic engineering.
EXAMPLE CAREER PATH
EXAMPLE CAREER PATH
Various industries › Business development manager
Agriculture & Environment › Ecologist Salary: £25,000 – £60,000
Salary: £17,000 – £29,000 Career: This role focuses on growing a business,
Career: Ecologists study the relationship between living which might be through attracting new customers,
things and the environment they live in. This includes or encouraging existing customers to buy more. It also
the way human activity impacts organisms. The study involves building relationships with suppliers and other
of biology provides all of the foundational knowledge
5 skills biology will give your child 5 skills business will give your child
partners. People skills are an asset and being able to
needed to do this job, as well as many of the practical 1. Curiosity think critically and strategically is a must as well. 1. Decision making
skills required to carry out research.
2. Organisation 2. People skills
EDUCATION
EDUCATION 3. Analysis 3. Critical thinking
At 14: GCSE Choose GCSE business
At 14: GCSE Single sciences 4. Communication 4. Commercial awareness
At 16: A-level / equivalent Choose A-level business
At 16: A-level / equivalent Biology 5. Critical thinking (or equivalent). Or the BTEC National in business 5. Time management
At 18: Degree in biology, ecology, environmental At 18: Apply for a degree in business development
science, zoology etc. or business management, or an apprenticeship as an
After university: Graduate job in ecology / improvement leader
Postgraduate qualification in ecology Jobs directly linked to biology Jobs directly linked to business:
OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER
• Biomedical scientist OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER • Financial trader
Common career paths for biologists: Maths, economics Common career paths for business students:
Chemistry, geography
• Plant scientist EMPLOYERS
• Data analyst
EMPLOYERS
• Environment officer • Risk manager
IT & technology › Google, Microsoft, Apple
Charity & non-profit › Wildlife Trust, WWF, RSPB Career paths you might not have thought of: Career paths you might not have thought of:
Banking & finance › JP Morgan, NatWest, HSBC,
Public sector & government › DEFRA, Natural
England, Forestry Commission, Environment Agency • Epidemiologist Barclays • Occupational psychologist
• Science policy advisor • Construction manager24 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 25
Chemistry Computer Science
Chemists have the power to do a lot of good, from exploring new water treatment methods or Computer science in the broadest sense relates to computing in our daily lives. Some of the skills your
searching for sustainable ways to generate energy to developing new treatments for illnesses child will learn are technical, such as programming and database development. But there are plenty of
such as cancer and malaria. transferable skills that set students up for a range of jobs.
JOB OF THE FUTURE JOB OF THE FUTURE
Organometallic chemist AI engineers
This is a field that’s expected to grow within chemistry. AI is already playing a growing role in our world. We’ve
It’s the study of chemical compounds that have metal- got virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa in our homes.
carbon bonds, as well as their reactions. It’s essential for This is also the technology being used to develop self-
many industrial processes. Research in this area could driving cars. Computer scientists use their programming
lead to new processes or products in sectors like energy skills to work on new forms of transport or help maintain
production and pharmaceuticals. the automated systems that make everything from food
to computers.
EXAMPLE CAREER PATH
EXAMPLE CAREER PATH
Police, Security & Emergencies › Forensic scientist
Salary: £20,000 – £45,000 IT & The Internet › Software tester
Career: This job involves analysing traces of physical Salary: £18,000 – £50,000
evidence from crime scenes and prepare this evidence Career: Software testers test software and systems
for use in court. Forensic scientists use analytical skills to find issues that need to be fixed before a product
and take a methodical approach, paying close attention is launched. Understanding software and the various
to detail to ensure any evidence handled or prepared is testing methods is vital and software testers also need
admissible in court. communication skills to share their findings with other
team members.
EDUCATION 5 skills chemistry will give your child 5 skills computer science will give your child
EDUCATION
At 14: GCSE Choose GCSE chemistry or combined 1. Collating 1. Problem solving
science At 14: GCSE Choose computer science and maths
2. Presentation At 16: A-level / equivalent Choose computer science
2. Mathematical skills
At 16: A-level / equivalent A-level/equivalent › Choose
A-level chemistry (or equivalent). Or a BTEC National 3. Investigation and maths A-level, or equivalent, or a BTEC National 3. Data analysis
in forensic and criminal investigation Diploma in IT (software development)
4. Analysis 4. Creativity
At 18: Choose a degree in chemistry, biology or At 18: A degree in computer science or IT prepares
forensic science 5. Attention to detail students well, but degrees in maths, physics, electrical 5. Logical thinking
engineering and chemistry can also lead to this job.
OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER Students can also apply for an apprenticeship as a
Jobs directly linked to chemistry: software tester Jobs directly linked to computer science:
Biology, physics, maths
• Pharmacologist OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER • VFX artist
EMPLOYERS
Common career paths for chemists: Electronics Common career paths for computer scientists:
Police & law enforcement › Scottish Police Authority
Forensic Services, Metropolitan Police Specialist Crime • Nuclear engineer EMPLOYERS
• Robotics engineer
and Operations • Biotechnologist • PPC specialist
Science › Cellmark Forensic Services, SOCOTEC UK, IT › IBM, Microsoft, Cisco
Career paths you might not have thought of: Career paths you might not have thought of:
Eurofins Forensic Services Media & marketing › mobile app developers, BBC,
• Environmental consultant Netflix • User researcher
• Materials engineer • Supply chain manager26 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 27
Design and Technology Drama
Design and technology teaches students about every element of the design process. Studying drama at school doesn’t just pave the way to a career in acting. From makeup and wardrobe
Specialist knowledge of the design, prototyping and manufacturing process is essential to lighting, set design and production – these are all careers that can begin in drama class.
for those wanting to go into design professions.
JOB OF THE FUTURE JOB OF THE FUTURE
Robot designer Voice actor
According to the latest Future of Jobs report from the Video games are growing in popularity. The introduction
World Economic Forum, up to 37% of companies plan of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR)
to invest in robots by 2022. These vary from humanoid will see this industry evolve in the coming years. The
robots to stationary robots and everything in between. characters that appear in these video games need
Businesses in the oil and gas sector are investing in the voices. Players want to believe they’re interacting with a
development of aerial and underwater robots, which will real person. Businesses also need real people to provide
need to be designed for a variety of tasks. Organisations the voices for their virtual assistants. Drama students
in financial services are exploring the introduction of develop voice acting skills, providing opportunities to
humanoid robots. Design and technology students move away from traditional theatre.
could use their design skills to develop robots people
enjoy interacting with. EXAMPLE CAREER PATH
EXAMPLE CAREER PATH Performing Arts › Theatre stage manager
Salary: £18,000 – £45,000
Fashion & Beauty › Textile designer
Career: Theatre stage managers ensure everything
Salary: £15,000 – £40,000 is ready for a performance, managing rehearsals,
Career: This job is all about creating designs for costume fittings, props, actors, technicians and front-
fabrics. Textile designers typically work on products of-house staff. They need excellent communication
for the home, such as sofas, cushions and other soft 5 skills design and technology will give your child skills and a good all-round understanding of theatrical 5 skills drama will give your child
furnishings. Textile designers use their creativity as well performances.
as the knowledge they’ve developed about textiles and
1. Problem solving 1. Presentation
their properties. 2. Methodical thinking EDUCATION 2. Teamwork
3. Creativity 3. Creativity
EDUCATION At 14: GCSE Choose GCSE drama
4. IT At 16: A-level / equivalent Choose A-level drama 4. Decision making
At 14: GCSE Choose GCSE design and technology 5. Collaboration and theatre (or equivalent) or take a BTEC National 5. Communication
and specialise in fashion and textiles if that’s an option in performing arts
At 16: A-level / equivalent Choose A-level design and At 18: Apply for a degree in performing arts
technology and specialise in fashion and textiles Jobs directly linked to design and technology: production, theatre practice, stage management
At 18: Choose a degree in art and design, fashion or or technical theatre Jobs directly linked to drama:
textiles. Or look for an apprenticeship as a fashion and • Exhibition designer
textiles product technologist OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER • Actor
Common career paths for design and
OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER technology students: English literature, design and technology, music Common career paths for drama students:
• Graphic designer • Set designer
Art and design EMPLOYERS
• Design Engineer • Wardrobe supervisor
Theatres › National Theatre, The Old Vic, Royal
EMPLOYERS
Career paths you might not have thought of: Career paths you might not have thought of:
Exchange Theatre, Crucible Theatre
Fashion › Asos, Arcadia Group, River Island • Purchasing manager Film & TV › BBC, Channel 4, Pinewood, Warner Bros. • Community arts worker
Interior design › Tetrad, Ikea, Autumn Down • Automotive engineer • Broadcast presenter28 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 29
Economics English
Economists work in many sectors, but are particularly sought after in business, English is how we communicate. We all speak, read and write it every day, whatever our job.
finance and government. They use their analytical skills and expert knowledge Good written and spoken English is one of the top skills employers in every industry look for.
to predict trends in national economies, financial markets and business sectors.
JOB OF THE FUTURE JOB OF THE FUTURE
Process automation specialist UX and human-machine interaction designers
This is an emerging role named in the World Economic Every machine needs an interface. Working out the best
Forum’s latest Future of Jobs report. Economics way for people to communicate with and operate new
students’ knowledge of business processes and systems technology is a specialist job. These professionals work
mean they’re well-placed to work in this area. Their with people as well as new technology to test ideas.
communication skills will also be invaluable to explain Listening to and collecting feedback from end users
workplace changes. They may need to help staff adapt and then explaining the changes that need to be made
as more tasks get automated. to designers is all part of the process.
EXAMPLE CAREER PATH EXAMPLE CAREER PATH
Various › Financial risk analyst Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations ›
PR and communications officer
Salary: £21,000 – £74,000
Salary: £18,000 – £90,000
Career: Financial risk analysts assess the potential
financial risks facing a business. They work in the Career: PR is all about making businesses and people
industrial, commercial and public sectors. As well as look and sound good. Students manage and maintain
predicting internal risks, they use their economics the reputation of their clients. Communication skills
knowledge to identify future trends. Analytical and are essential for sharing and tailoring key messages to
critical thinking skills are essential. specific audiences. PR officers keep an eye on what’s
being said in the media and on social media and come
5 skills economics will give your child up with appropriate responses.
5 skills English will give your child
EDUCATION
1. Numeracy 1. Communication
EDUCATION
At 14: GCSE Choose GCSE economics 2. Communication 2. Creativity
At 16: A-level / equivalent Choose A-level economics At 14: GCSE Choose English/English literature
(or equivalent) 3. Problem solving 3. Critical thinking
and English language
At 18: Choose a degree in economics, risk 4. Decision making At 16: A-level / equivalent Choose English literature 4. Textual analysis
management, accountancy, finance or mathematics or English language A-level (or both)
5. Data analysis 5. Essay writing
At 18: Degrees in marketing, communication and media
OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER studies, English, politics and social sciences are some of
the best options to get into PR. Students can also find an
Business, maths, statistics Jobs directly linked to economics: apprenticeship as a PR and communications assistant Jobs directly linked to English:
EMPLOYERS • Investment analyst OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER
• Social media manager
Insurance › Aviva, Ageas, Hiscox UK Common career paths for economists: Common career paths for English students:
Media studies, languages
Public sector › HM Treasury, National Audit Office, • Statistician • Primary school teacher
Office for National Statistics, Office for Budget EMPLOYERS
• Insurance underwriter • Broadcast production assistant
Responsibility
Career paths you might not have thought of: PR & marketing › Weber Shandwick, Octopus Group, Career paths you might not have thought of:
Citizen Relations
• Policy officer Public sector › Universities, government departments, • Paralegal
• Pension scheme manager Police Federation of England and Wales • Speech and language therapist (SLT)30 HELPING YOUR CHILD BEGIN THEIR CAREER JOURNEY 31
Geography History
Geography dictates where we build our homes and how we protect them from things like Historians carry out research using lots of different sources. Piecing information together to create
flooding and earthquakes. It can be used to predict the spread of diseases. It’s how we find a complete picture of an event, society or era requires analytical, creative and critical thinking skills.
natural resources and energy sources.
JOB OF THE FUTURE JOB OF THE FUTURE
Aerial or underwater robot operator Futurist
Exciting new technology allows us to carry out surveys, A futurist works in the field of futurology. It’s becoming
including remote-operated aerial drones, which can more difficult to predict what’s going to happen and
be used to assess disaster zones. Remote-operated governments are looking for people who can provide
underwater vehicles can be sent to survey the deepest reassurance on the best way to move forward. History
parts of the ocean and help us learn more about this students’ critical thinking skills prepare them well for this
fascinating environment. role. They will communicate how the world is changing
to the general public and explain how this might affect
EXAMPLE CAREER PATH the global population.
Science & Research › Climate scientist EXAMPLE CAREER PATH
Salary: £27,000 – £55,0000
Education & Teaching › Museum education officer
Career: Climate scientists study the Earth’s climate
Salary: £17,000 – £40,000
over time and look at what influences changes in its
climate. They consider how these changes will affect Career: This job ensures the collections in a museum are
us in the future, using data collecting and analysis skills educational. Museum education officers look for ways
from geography. They also look for solutions to to make the exhibits engaging for visitors of all ages,
potential problems. and run events to encourage people to visit. Historical
knowledge is crucial. They also use communication and
presentation skills.
EDUCATION 5 skills geography will give your child 5 skills history will give your child
EDUCATION
At 14: GCSE Choose GCSE geography 1. Data analysis 1. Critical thinking
At 16: A-level / equivalent Choose A-level geography 2. Critical thinking At 14: GCSE Choose GCSE history 2. Time management
(or equivalent) At 16: A-level / equivalent Choose A-level history (or
At 18: Choose a degree in geography, environmental 3. IT 3. Communication
equivalent)
science or meteorology and climate science 4. Research At 18: Choose a degree in an area such as history, 4. Research
5. Teamwork cultural studies, community education or archive and 5. Debating
OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER museum studies
Maths, physics OTHER SCHOOL SUBJECTS TO CONSIDER
Jobs directly linked to geography: Jobs directly linked to history:
EMPLOYERS English literature, art and design
• Environmental consultant • Archaeologist
Research › Environmental Change Institute, Tyndall EMPLOYERS
Centre for Climate Change Research, Climatic Common career paths for geography students: Common career paths for historians:
Research Unit • Cartographer Charity & not-for-profit › National Maritime Museum, • Secondary school teacher
Public sector › Organisation for Economic People’s History Museum in Manchester, National
• Market researcher Museum Wales • Conservator/conservation officer
Co-operation and Development (OECD),
Committee on Climate Change Career paths you might not have thought of: Education › University museums and galleries Career paths you might not have thought of:
• International aid/development worker • Broadcast journalist
• Tourism officer • Human resources officerYou can also read
