career options for young people

When supporting your child to make decisions about their career, it is important that you feel confident and well informed in order to guide them in the right direction. The first step is understanding what local opportunities exist for young people. What sectors do these opportunities exist in, what jobs are available, and what are the different routes into these jobs?

Find out about Jobs of the Future in Scotland at My Kids Career.
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You can also find out more about what is happening in schools in Edinburgh, Midlothian and East Lothian. Or find out what offers are available from employers to schools in your area on Marketplace.

Choosing their next steps

Nowadays young people have a wide range of career options available to them, with pathways which start in school. For example subject choice in secondary schools can include vocational courses which may be delivered in colleges and workplaces.  Foundation Apprenticeships are a great example of how young people are gaining valuable workplace skills whilst completing a relevant qualification.  Find out more on our young people's page.

getting them work ready

Making sure your child has the best chance possible at succeeding in their future is something that is important to every parent. Employers regularly tell us that being work ready is much more than qualifications. It is about skills, attitude and behaviours, and these can be developed in many ways.

​Find out how local employers support work readiness on Marketplace.

Find some helpful hints and tips on our young people's page.

Getting them Hired

Taking the first step into the world of work can be overwhelming. However parents are in the best position to help their child to get their foot on the career ladder. 
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What should they include on their CV? What skills are employer looking for? How do you find jobs? What is the best way of applying for a job? How do they stand out from the crowd? What do they do if they are invited to interview?

Visit our young people's page for practical tips and advice on CV's, job applications and job interviews. Our Jobs Board has live vacancies in Edinburgh, Midlothian and East Lothian.

other useful websites

​For more information about the careers service provided within schools, career education or subject choices.

Education Scotland's Parentzone allows you to be at the heart of your child's learning. Find out ways to get involved and keep up to date with the latest news.

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework helps you understand and compare Scottish Qualifications and make decisions about future learning and progression.

​The Scottish Qualifications Authority provides useful information and resources to help parents and carers to support their children with exams and coursework.

The National Parent Forum Scotland represents Parent Councils across Scotland.

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