Supporting Young People in Career Decisions

As a parent or guardian, you play a key role in guiding your child through career choices. Engage in conversations about jobs that capture their interest, help them research various paths, and explore the skills and qualifications required for different roles. Your positive influence can make a significant difference in shaping their future.

Understanding your child’s career paths

Career planning is a journey, and your child will make decisions at different stages of life. Regularly encourage discussions about the jobs they may notice others doing whether that’s people they know, pass on the street, or see in the media. Explore roles that align with their interests, abilities and aspirations.

Listening and discussing options

To listen effectively and support your child, you should:

• Listen without judgment and remain open to their ideas
• Encourage exploration of all possibilities, even unconventional ones
• Recognise that their choices should reflect their aspirations and abilities, not your expectations
• Understand that career ideas may evolve as they get older

Helping your child plan a career

When your child begins considering career paths, encourage them to research thoroughly. Assist them in finding the requirements for their chosen field, such as education, training, or skills.

This process also develops their decision-making abilities, which are vital for adult life. Teach them to weigh pros and cons, make informed decisions, and take actionable steps towards their goals.

How you can shape your child’s future

You can support your child by helping them:

• Discuss career interests and long-term goals.
• Research different professions and opportunities.
• Explore education, employment, and training options.
• Talk with teachers or career advisers for tailored guidance.
• Understand entry requirements for courses and jobs of interest.
• Build skills through extracurricular activities, clubs, and hobbies.
• Gain experience through work placements and networking with family or friends in various industries. 
• Attend school-organised career events.

Careers in demand now and in the future

It’s essential to stay informed about current and emerging job markets to help your child make informed decisions. In Northern Ireland, there are significant opportunities in fields such as:

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM): Key areas include software development, cybersecurity, and database management.
• Business and Financial Services: Roles like accountancy, financial analysis, and corporate recovery.
• Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering: Skills like CAD, CNC operations, and mechanical or electrical engineering.
• Renewable Energy and Recycling: Careers that contribute to sustainability.
• Creative and Digital Media: Opportunities in design, content creation, and marketing.
• Hospitality and Tourism: Jobs in hotels and catering to support the growing tourism industry.
• Retail: A sector with diverse opportunities for skill development and career growth.

By understanding these key areas, you can help your child prepare for a future in thriving and innovative industries.

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For further insights and guidance on maximising your apprenticeship funding, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at:

Tel: 023 8017 0380

Email: hello@kiwieducation.co.uk

Kiwi & Yuzu Ltd is committed to empowering businesses and individuals through quality education, training, and skills development.