Importance of career education

It helps to prepare them for the workplace by providing a clear understanding of the world of work including the routes to jobs and careers that they might find engaging and rewarding. It supports them to acquire the self-development and career management skills they need to achieve positive employment destinations. This helps students to choose their pathways, improve their life opportunities and contribute to a productive and successful economy.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the economy, education and the opportunities open to students. Research has shown that school and college leaders recognise that careers guidance has become more important than ever as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The department of education urges senior leaders to back their careers team, especially their Careers Leader, and to invest in personal guidance provided by a qualified careers adviser. This will allow the continued delivery of high-quality, progressive careers programmes that support all students to acquire the knowledge, skills and confidence to fulfil their potential. This statutory guidance explains the support we have put in place to help schools and colleges achieve this.

Careers education in secondary school:

helps students learn about potential careers, develop skills for managing their career, and explore their own career interests. It also helps students make informed decisions about their future. 

What does careers education include?

Learning about careers - Students learn about the different careers available to them. 

Developing career management skills - Students learn how to manage their career, including how to navigate the world of work and training. 

Exploring interests - Students discover their interests and how they can be applied to their career choices. 

Developing non-academic skills - Students develop skills such as enterprise skills and social-emotional skills.