How can we encourage more young people to want to work in education?
Entering the world of work is an exciting, transformative time for any young person. But it can come with a sense of pressure for teachers, parents and guardians who want to ensure that the younger generation get the best start they can. With a little preparation, we can ensure young people are equipped to make informed choices about their future career paths.
A career in education is a rewarding one, with plenty of opportunity for development. If you’re hoping to introduce your child to the benefits of a role in teaching or the like, here are three ways we can encourage young people to want to work in education.
Career education
Many young people don’t get the opportunity to consider their career aspirations in depth until they’re faced with a crossroads, such as the moment they choose whether or not to go to university. This can lead to rash, uninformed decisions, with many choosing to pursue a path they don’t feel particularly passionate about.
If we talk to school-aged children about the world of work prior to them having to make such big choices, they’re more likely to enter the workforce with a clear view of the career they’d like to pursue. Parents and teachers can talk to pre-teens and teenagers about what they should look for in a vocation, as well as jobs that might match their personalities, interests and skill sets. They may want to discuss the perks of a career in education, as well as potential roles and the study routes to achieving them.
Classroom experience
Some schools offer work placements, which can be a great chance for pupils to get hands-on experience in a supportive teaching role. Not every school will be able to offer this as part of the curriculum, so it’s important that we encourage young people to seek these opportunities on their own too.
Schools may want to partner with other local institutions to connect their students with potential placements – while parents can encourage their children to reach out to schools of their own accord about potential opportunities. By taking on practical experience, young people will get an insight into the day-to-day duties of an educator, and come to understand what it takes to succeed in the role.
Positive conversations
Sparking your child’s interest in a particular subject is often as simple as having a chat with them about it, as most young people will look to their mentors for guidance when it comes time to pursue a qualification or apply for training opportunities.
If you share your own interest in education, you’re likely to also spark your child’s interest. Ultimately, by educating your child on the routes available to them and helping them to understand their goals, you can guide them towards a career path that is a great fit.
