Topic outline

  • How to Support Your Child With Careers


    • 5 Top Tips For Starting Career Conversations At Home

      1. Ask open-ended questions

      Instead of yes/no questions, try things like:

      • “What subjects do you enjoy most and why?”
      • “What kind of work do you think you’d find interesting?”

      These help your child explore their interests and values.


      2. Link school subjects to real jobs

      Help them see how what they’re learning connects to careers:

      • “You like science — have you thought about what jobs use science every day?”
      • “English and drama help with confidence — what careers might use that?”


      3. Talk about your own experiences

      Share your own career path — including changes and challenges.

      It helps them see that careers aren’t always straightforward and that it’s okay to change direction.


      4. Explore together

      Look up job profiles, college courses, or apprenticeships on websites like National Careers Service or UCAS.

      Doing this together makes it feel less like pressure and more like teamwork.


      5. Encourage curiosity, not pressure

      Remind them it’s okay not to have all the answers yet.

      Ask things like:

      • “What would you like to try or learn more about?”
      • “Who could we talk to for more information?”

      • Questions Parents Can Ask After Careers Events Or Lessons

        Common myths about careers (e.g. “university is the only route”)


        1. “You need to know your dream job by Year 11.”

        Not true! Most people try out several jobs before finding the right one. Year 11 is about exploring options, not deciding for life.


        2. “University is the only path to success.”

        There are many routes — apprenticeships, college courses, T Levels, and vocational training can all lead to great careers.


        3. “You should choose a job just because it pays well.”

        Enjoyment, kills, and work–life balance matter just as much. A well-paid job can still feel wrong if it doesn’t suit you.


        4. “Boys’ and girls’ jobs are different.”

        Every career is open to everyone. Skills and interests should guide choices, not gender stereotypes.


        5. “Once you pick a career, you’re stuck with it.”

        Many adults change jobs or even industries several times. Skills are transferable, and lifelong learning keeps doors open.

        • Careers Roadmap by Year Group (Y7–Y11)

          Useful careers links 

          https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/careers

          https://www.careerpilot.org.uk/parent-zone

          https://www.ucas.com/further-education/post-16-options/getting-started

          https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/

          https://apprenticeships.co.uk/student-home


          Unifrog is our web based resource for students to explore their options when they leave Yardleys. Unifrog is an online “universal destinations” platform that helps students explore careers, apprenticeships, further education and university courses in one place. It includes tools to record activities and skills, compare opportunities (e.g., courses, apprenticeships) and build strong application documents (CVs, personal statements).

          All student have a log for Unifrog and if they do not remember their password then they can easily reset their password through the website.



          • Contacts for Careers

            Careers Education is supported at Yardleys School by the Careers Leader, Mr. Lawrence (Assistant Headteacher), and the Careers Co-ordinator, Ms. Price. Please contact us to book a parent meeting about careers and any SEN-specific careers support information (if relevant)


            Mr. Lawrence (Careers Leader)
            Telephone: 0121 464 5617


            Ms. Price (Careers Co-ordinator) 
            Telephone: 0121 464 6821


            Email: enquiry@yardleys.bham.sch.uk