How to Help
Ok, so you've looked at all the options. But how do you help your child decide between them if they can't decide, or you think they're making the wrong decision?
Learner Profiles
John from S.Shields
John is considering two career choices at the moment: joining the Police service or becoming a shipwright. Read more...
What do they enjoy doing?
Could they have a career in something related to this? It’s not always possible to work is something you directly do as a hobby for example, but if your child loves sport, why not see if there are any courses or careers they might enjoy in this area such as Fitness Instruction.
How do they like to learn?
What sort of learning environment do they like? Some kids love being in a classroom reading books and making notes; others like to move around and do something practical. It’s important to consider whether the option they choose will fit in with this.
Are they really committed to whatever they’ve chosen to do?
Ask them what’s their motivation for wanting to do something? If they are interested in a course and are really excited about it then great. If they want to do something as it means they’ll be with their friends it’s likely they’ll get bored and drop out after a while. Not so great when they’re in your house all day until they can start something else!
Are they making the most of their potential?
Look at the long term benefits of doing something as well as the short term. Your son or daughter may be keen to get a job or apprenticeship after they leave school, but if they have the ability to do some further study and go to university they could earn a lot more money over their life time than someone who never went into Higher Education.
Why not get some advice and talk to someone about your child’s options?
Get some professional advice. Talk to their teachers at school and their Careers Advisor (who you will also be able to see at Connexions). They will be more than happy to discuss everything with you and send you some further information on subjects, courses and careers you’re interested in.
What other sources of information are there to help?
Attend Open Evenings for local schools and/or colleges to see what you both think. Even if you decide this is not the best route to go down you know you will have looked at all the options before making a decision. If you have access to the internet, then check out Jobs 4 U; a careers website that will give you all the information on routes into different occupations, pay, training and further opportunities. To explore further go to Connexions Direct Jobs4U
