Preparing young people for the world of work is an essential part of the school curriculum, yet finding quality career resources can be a challenge for many educators.
We’ve used our 60+ years of experience in the employment sector to create a unique guide that gives careers advice for students, empowering them to make the right choices for them.
The guide, which forms part of our Gateway to work programme, has been produced in collaboration with Alec Reed Academy, an all-through school and sixth form in Ealing, London. Sir Alec Reed, our founder, was the first sponsor of the school, investing in the development of state-of-the-art facilities for the new academy and we’ve continued to support for the school for more than 17 years to provide opportunities for its students.
What does the guide include?
Routes to employment
In-depth information on the various routes to employment (apprenticeships, traineeships, higher education, volunteering, and going straight into the workplace) and a tick box exercise to help students establish which option is best suited to their career goals.
Range of industries
Information on different sectors including STEM careers, jobs in green energy, and 14 other industries, such as marketing, construction, health and care, and human resources.
Salaries and career progression
Within each sector we have picked out one or two entry-level jobs that are suitable for school leavers, pinpointing what GCSE’s, A-Levels, or equivalent qualifications they need to enter that profession, how much they can expect to earn when they start out, and how much they can earn after three and six years.
We have also highlighted a range of jobs in each field and provided up to date salary information, based on the 2022 Reed Salary Guides data.
Discounted courses
For each industry, we have provided a link to a discounted course that students can take to learn more about the industry and gain essential skills and knowledge that they will need to work in that sector. All courses are available through Reed Courses and supplied by external providers.
By downloading this guide, you will also receive a free promotional pack for your school, enabling you to promote the careers guide with your students and parents. The pack includes:
A poster that can be displayed around the school
An advert to be added to your school's website and within your parent newsletter
An image to use on social media to inform parents about the guide and encourage them to speak to their child about careers
Who is the guide suitable for?
Historically, careers education has only been provided to students in years 10 to 13, however by providing careers education as early as possible, students can begin to think about what types of careers they want. This will help guide their GCSE option choices and give them the motivation to succeed at school because they can see a clear path beyond education.
That’s why we have created this guide for all secondary school year groups, with easy-to-understand descriptions and a comprehensive glossary.
Reed Learning's Gateway to work programme
This careers guide forms part of our ‘Gateway to work’ programme delivered by Reed Learning, an e-learning programme designed to help students in years 10 to 13 successfully enter the world of work.
The programme includes virtual work experience placements with top-name companies, CV writing advice, mock interviews, and support with building confidence and clarity about their future.
Find out more about Gateway to work.