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.
SQA results
Subject choices
Routes and pathways
Jobs in demand
Applications and interviews
P7 to S1 transition
SQA results
Understand SQA results:
- What the results really mean
- What to do if they don't get the results they need
- Apprenticeships, jobs and gap years
- 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 SQA resultsSubject choices
Understand subject choices:
- What to consider in S5/S6
- What to consider in S2/S3
- Articulation routes
- 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 choicesRoutes and pathways
Understand routes and pathways:
- Apprenticeships
- College
- University
- 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 pathwaysJobs in demand
Understand jobs in demand:
- Who they are and where they’ll be
- How employment is changing
- Horizons and networks – how you can help
- 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 demandApplications and interviews
Understand applications and interviews:
- Job applications and interviews
- Social media and job hunting
- Further education and personal statements
- 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 interviewsP7 to S1 transition
Understand P7 to S1 transition:
- Coping with change
- Learning about themselves
- The support they’ll get
- 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