Career discussions

Talk careers with confidence

Starting the conversation can be the most challenging bit.

When do you do it? How do you do it? Who are you to tell them what to do with their life?

Research tells us that parents and carers are by far and away the biggest influence on children’s careers decisions. And if you’re invested in their future, it’s important you talk to them.

But we get it. Things may have changed since you were in their shoes. Exams may be different, subjects may be different and the world of work has changed forever. And that can make it difficult to start the chat about ambitions and choices.

These step-by-step conversation guides, designed with our careers advisers, break down big topics into manageable chunks.

Career discussions

Talk careers with confidence - select one of our step-by-step guides. Click on a segment to find out more.

Subject choices

Routes and pathways

Jobs in demand

Applications and interviews

P7 to S1 transition

Exam results

Subject choices

Understand subject choices:

  1. What to consider in S5/S6
  2. What to consider in S2/S3
  3. Articulation routes
  4. Where you fit in

It's a big decision - but shouldn't be daunting. We've got the advice you need to help them choose the right direction.

Find out more about Subject choices

Routes and pathways

Understand routes and pathways:

  1. Apprenticeships
  2. College
  3. University
  4. Getting a job

Whether they want to learn as they earn or study after school, work out what’s best for your child with this guide.

Find out more about the different routes and pathways

Jobs in demand

Understand jobs in demand:

  1. Who they are and where they’ll be
  2. How employment is changing
  3. Horizons and networks – how you can help
  4. Researching opportunities together

The world of work continues to evolve – stay up-to-speed with the opportunities of the future

Find out more about the jobs in demand

Applications and interviews

Understand applications and interviews:

  1. Job applications and interviews
  2. Social media and job hunting
  3. Further education and personal statements
  4. The importance of skills

Applications and interviews needn't be a stumbling block. Our guidance on skills, CVs and personal statements can support you.

Find out more about Applications and interviews

P7 to S1 transition

Understand P7 to S1 transition:

  1. Coping with change
  2. Learning about themselves
  3. The support they’ll get
  4. What you can do together

Moving to 'Big School' can be stressful. We are here to help you start thinking about their strengths, skills and ambitions.

Find out more about P7 - S1 transition

Exam results

Understand exam results:

  1. What the results really mean
  2. What to do if they don't get the results they need
  3. Apprenticeships, jobs and gap years
  4. Further education

These step-by-step toolkits, designed with our expert careers advisers, will help you tackle tricky topics with ease.

Find out more about Exam results