So, your child is leaving school. What happens next?
Leaving school is a huge milestone for you and your child. Whether there’s a clear plan in place or things still feel uncertain, it’s completely normal to have questions – and you’re not alone.
Your child might have their future mapped out and be ready to move on or they may be unsure what comes next and looking to you for guidance. Either way, you have an important role to play during this transition. That might mean visiting universities together, preparing for a first day at work or sitting down to talk through the different options available.
Even after your child leaves school, support doesn’t stop. A school careers adviser may check in by call or text to see how things are going and they’ll always be clear about who they are and where they’re calling from. And if plans change – whether that’s a new course, a job search or simply needing to talk things through – help is still available.
Five tips to help your child leave school with confidence
- Prepare, prepare, prepare. The earlier you start working with your child to plan their future, the better. Applications for college, university and apprenticeships are often done months before school finishes. So it’s a good idea to sit down with your child as early as you can to get a feel for what they want to do.
- Nurture their spark. Some young people have no idea what they’d like to do after school – does that sound like your child? Spend time with them and listen out for school subjects or hobbies they’re passionate about. Then, look for ways you can help them develop this and perhaps use it to inspire their future career.
- See what’s out there. There are lots of different routes your child can take. It’s important they get to sample as many things as possible before they make up their mind. Colleges and universities often run open days, masterclasses and taster sessions. Volunteering or work experience also give your child a taste of different careers.
- Know where to turn for specialist advice. Your child’s school guidance teacher is a good starting point – they understand your child’s strengths and interests and can help point them in the right direction. There are also dedicated careers advisers available through Skills Development Scotland who can offer impartial advice on courses, training and career pathways.
- Dream big but have a backup plan. There’s no limit to what your child can achieve in their career. But remember, there are several ways to reach where they want to go. Your child may need certain grades to get into the course, job or apprenticeship of their dreams. Work with them to map out other ways into their chosen career, just in case they need to take a different path.
Support for parents and carers of young people with additional support needs
If your child is due to finish school, you may be wondering what comes next? What does their future look like?
There are charities to support you. These organisations offer support, resources and guidance to parents and carers of all young people in Scotland as they make the transition to young adult life.