Decisions at 18 2010 - Flexibility for careers of the future20 April 2010 - 22 April 2010

Workshop details

Day

Day 1

Session

B

Start time

16.35

Strand

Practitioner

Code

B5

Presenters

Mr Rob Brown - HE Adviser

Mr Mike Chant - HE Adviser, University of Glamorgan

Overview

Theme: It is well documented that parents and peers can have more influence on applicants' decisions than advisers. It is less well recognised within careers programmes that in the ‘formal' arena of advice, subject teachers can have greater influence on final course decisions than careers advisers or HE tutors. This particularly applies in vocational subjects and areas. Teachers with a passion for their subject inevitably influence student interest in carrying their subject forward into HE and careers, but could/should such teachers take a more proactive approach to and responsibility for expanding students subject horizons beyond the straight/single /same name discipline? How might advisers and HE providers encourage vocational subject specialists to realistically introduce new HE subjects and levels, study modes, combinations and careers? 

Objective: to explore how expanding horizons can be encouraged by subject specialists, particularly those involved with vocational disciplines. We shall look at possible supporting material, including Higher Ideas, and share ideas, good practice and experience in a way that enables us to return to school/college with greater confidence to draw others into this important pre-application exercise.

What might participants gain?  Delegates will feel ‘reminded' about the extent of subject/course choice and opportunity in the UK. By sharing ideas, experience and resource material, delegates will be able to develop the necessary enthusiasm and confidence to share this rewarding challenge with school/college colleagues and vocational students.