As many young people prepare to make life-changing decisions on their further education and career choices, East Midlands parents of 15 and 16-year-olds admit to having a bleak outlook on their child’s working future.
According to new research from the Gatsby Charitable Foundation over 93% of parents from the East Midlands think the job market will be concerning and uncertain when their child leaves education. However, businesses in England offer a contrasting outlook as 46% have experienced staff shortages in the last 12 months, and will be actively seeking new talent.
Whilst employers seek the technically trained people they need to fill roles, a huge 95% of parents from the East Midlands admit to worrying about their teenagers’ working future with the top concerns including that they will go into a job they dislike or hate (54%), they won’t be able to find a job (47%) and they won’t have enough work experience to get the job they want (31%).
Despite these concerns and 98% of parents from the East Midlands, many are unaware of T-levels – a new qualification focused on the real world of work.
Designed with employers across multiple industries, T Levels offer young people aged 16-19 an ideal first step into their future career. Combining classroom study with a 45-day industry placement, young people can put learnt skills, attitudes and knowledge into action, while also getting exposure to potential employers. The two-year T-level course offers a wide range of subject choices including Healthcare Science, Education and Childcare, Accounting, Digital Support Services, Legal Services, Management and Administration and many more. After a T-level young people may go onto employment, an apprenticeship, a higher technical course, or a degree as their next career step.
In the East Midlands, 29 schools and colleges already deliver T-level courses including Derby College, Leicester College, Loughborough College and University Academy Holbeach, with more to follow.
Apprentice star and father-of-two Tim Campbell said: “This term is a crucial time for young people to make their future choices, whether they decide to go into further education, or enter the working world. While many parents feel clued-up on some of the pathways their children can take, such as A-levels, this campaign aims to fill in any knowledge gaps when it comes to the recently introduced T-level.
“T-levels offer children the opportunity to develop a deep knowledge and understanding in a subject they are passionate about, then take their knowledge, attitude and practical skills to the next level through an industry placement. After a T-level your child could step into employment, an apprenticeship, a higher technical course, or a university degree.
“As both a businessman and parent, I can see the unique benefits T-levels present to both parents and employers. Parents can be reassured that their children are finding out more about the career opportunities open to them, while building their confidence and life skills. At the same time employers recognise that T-levels cover the key knowledge and skills areas of the most in-demand and growing sectors in the country, helping to address the skills gaps businesses are reporting.”
