Careers Excellence Seminar

Careers Excellence Seminar 6

The expert panellists reflected on the significance of starting early for laying the foundations and smoothing transition between primary and the careers education system in secondary schools. 

Key takeaways from the event include: 

1. Early career education matters – Career aspirations start forming in early childhood, with biases appearing as early as Year 2. Embedding careers education in primary school ensures children see relevance in their learning, broadens aspirations, and prepares them for future transitions.

    

2. Breaking stereotypes & barriers – Careers education helps tackle gender, class, and cultural stereotypes that limit young people’s aspirations. Engaging employers and diverse role models from various industries is crucial to showcasing opportunities beyond traditional career paths.

    

3. The role of schools and employers – Strong partnerships between schools, employers, and the community create meaningful career experiences, such as site visits, workshops, and real-world applications of classroom learning. Sustainable employer engagement is key, especially for SMEs. 

    

4. Careers as a whole-school approach – Careers education should be integrated across the curriculum rather than treated as an add-on. From Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to Year 6, linking career topics to learning helps students develop soft skills and an understanding of different pathways. For primary schools, PSHE Education is a great place to start.

    

5. The power of engagement and networks – Success relies on buy-in from senior leadership, teachers, parents, and the wider community. Training and resources for teachers, alumni involvement, and community networks ensure a lasting impact on career readiness. 

In case you missed it or would like to re-watch the incredible discussions and share with your network, you can watch the entire stream here.