Teachers possess a unique skill set that can be highly beneficial in the realm of career guidance, that is why Did Teach teamed up with Complete Careers to deliver a webinar on this very subject. 

Jo Welch joins us from Complete Careers and she has a wealth of knowledge, having worked within the education sector for over 20 years. Jo has welcomed our Those Who Can teacher audience to email her with any questions related to career guidance: Jo Welch

This blog and video will help any teacher who is looking to retrain as a career guidance counsellor. 

Why Teachers Make Great Career Guidance Counsellors

Teachers already possess many skills critical to career counselling: The ability to convey information clearly and empathetically. Experience in advising and mentoring students. The ability to gather and interpret information about career options and job markets. Managing student progress and planning personalised pathways.

While teaching provides a strong foundation, additional qualifications in career guidance can enhance credibility and expertise. Consider pursuing:

• Certifications in Career Counselling: Programs offered by professional bodies and educational institutions.
• Master’s Degree in Career Development: Advanced study in career counselling theories and practices.
• Apprenticeships: These can be undertaken whilst teaching (as explored in the video).

It’s worth visiting the Career Development Insitute website for more information advice and guidance.

Effective career guidance requires up-to-date knowledge of various industries, job markets, and educational pathways. Teachers transitioning to this role should:

• Subscribe to Industry Publications and stay informed about job market trends and emerging career fields.
• Network with Professionals, and engage with career guidance counsellors and industry experts via LinkedIn or Career Counselling groups on Facebook.

As a teacher, you should focus on developing counselling-specific skills, such as active listening, and understanding students’ aspirations, concerns, and goals. Providing support and encouragement tailored to individual needs. Use aptitude tests and career assessments to guide students.

Gaining practical experience in career guidance can be invaluable. Consider: shadowing and volunteering, spending time with experienced career counsellors, in schools, universities or community programmes to observe and learn.

Here is Jo’s slide deck: Those Who Can – Moving from teaching to guidance for circulation

The Importance Of Careers Guidance

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing job market, the role of career guidance for young people has never been more critical. Here’s why:

The modern job landscape is complex and dynamic, with new industries and roles emerging regularly. Career guidance helps young people understand this landscape, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions.

Careers guidance provides tailored advice that aligns with their personal goals and capabilities, ensuring they pursue pathways that resonate with them.

Career counsellors help students recognise and develop essential skills, from academic qualifications to soft skills like communication and problem-solving, preparing them for the workforce.

Uncertainty about the future can be daunting for young people. Effective guidance builds confidence, helping them to set realistic goals and understand the steps needed to achieve them.

Aligning education and career choices with market needs, career guidance can reduce youth unemployment and underemployment, ensuring that young people enter the workforce in roles that are in demand.

The role of career guidance for young people is essential in today’s complex job market, providing them with the tools and confidence to navigate their future careers successfully. Teachers, with their unique skills and experience, are well-positioned to transition into this rewarding field. By recognising their transferable skills, gaining relevant qualifications, and embracing continuous learning, teachers can become effective career guidance counsellors, shaping the futures of countless young individuals.