Preparing pupils for the world of work

Bring work related learning to the classroom

It’s common for children and teenagers to entertain a whole manner of different career options. Whether it’s wanting to be an astronaut or an influencer, most yo-yo from one idea to another as they enter and progress through their teenage years.

Pre-GCSEs it’s far too early to provide formal careers advice, however schools have a responsibility to focus on broadening pupils’ horizons. By offering a wide range of experiences and running workshops, pupils’ aspirations will be raised and more career possibilities will be realised.

Run workshops and taster days

According to one survey, giving children the chance to meet people from different industries and listening to their story can help them better understand the relevance of the subjects they study in the classroom, as well as boosting motivation.

For secondary school pupils, careers fairs packed with exhibitors from further education institutes, small and large businesses, can also be a really great opportunity to learn more about their options and the qualifications required for certain jobs.

Prepare pupils for the future

Not only is the job market constantly evolving, but new technologies are being launched and developed at lightning pace, transforming how certain roles are undertaken. Schools should therefore do what they can to ensure pupils are technologically savvy and confident using digital programs.

Creating an outstanding CV

CVs provide an opportunity to make a good first impression and when the time comes, young adults need to feel confident showcasing their qualities. Schools should arrange workshops to ensure pupils feel confident in this area and know exactly what will be required of them to make their application stand out from the crowd.

Consider specialist technology

While teachers and careers support advisors have an important role to play, 1-2-1 meetings aren’t always possible. Across the UK, all secondary schools are now expected to provide effective careers information, education, advice and guidance to encourage pupils to make the best possible choices.

Specialist career software for schools, such as Access Career Guru, can provide interactive careers guidance for pupils, helping to deliver a fun, personalised experience for pupils to explore the professional world all from the comfort of their computer screens.

To find out more about the functionality Access Career Guru can offer schools and pupils, watch our most recent video.

Key features include:

1) Employability skills and aptitude tests that cover psychometric, numerical, verbal and situational judgement.

2) Interactive tools and video advice to help pupils develop their self-awareness and understand the skills needed to boost employability.

3) Virtual showcasing of working environments to help pupils explore their career options in an engaging way.

4) Tools to help students prepare a thorough CV and job application, as well as feedback.

5) Industry insights and engaging videos from professionals to showcase specific roles and industries.

6) Personalised mock interviews for jobs and universities to ensure pupils are prepared for their first interview, with automated feedback provided.

7) The ability to work through key actions and activities over time to boost candidate strength.

Schools and academic institutions have an important role to play in helping students prepare for the world of work and it’s important that the right initiatives and processes are in place.