How you can help your young person navigate their next steps after college
27th October 2025
As a parent or carer of a young person in further education, you play a vital role in helping them navigate their next steps. Whether they’re considering university, apprenticeships, employment, or something else entirely, your support and guidance can make a big difference.
We’ve put together some of our top tips to help you have positive, productive conversations about their future:
1. Start with curiosity, not pressure
Begin with gentle, open-ended questions that invite reflection. You might also want to avoid jumping straight to decisions or expectations.
2. Listen more than you talk
Give them space to explore their thoughts, even if they’re unsure or change their mind. Your role is to support, not steer.
3. Focus on strengths and interests
Help your young person to identify what they enjoy and what they’re good at. This can lead to more meaningful and sustainable career choices.
4. Explore options together
Use trusted websites to explore the variety of options available to your young person:
- National Careers Service
- UCAS
- Apprenticeships.gov.uk
- Talking Futures – here you can view a family action plan, videos, and clear information about post-16 options and student finance
5. Be realistic but encouraging
It’s completely okay that your young person doesn’t have it all figured out! Reassure them that career paths aren’t always straight lines, and they have plenty of time to discover the right path for them
6. Talk about life skills
Time management, teamwork, and resilience are just as important as qualifications! Encourage them to build these through part-time work, volunteering, or hobbies.
7. Keep the conversation going
Career planning isn’t a one-off chat. Keep checking in with your young person, celebrating progress, and helping them to adjust plans as needed.
What can I say to open up the conversation?
If you’re not sure how to begin, ask one of these questions:
- What subject are you most enjoying?
- What project were you most excited about doing at school or college?
- Are there careers you feel passionate about?
- When you think about a career, what captures your interest?
- What sorts of things do you most love doing?
- What kind of people do you want to work with?
These can help spark ideas and open up meaningful dialogue with your young person.
Need More Support?
Our Careers Team are always here to help. We offer 1:1 guidance, workshops, and resources for both students and families. Don't hesitate to get in touch! Give us a call on 01603 773773, or email information@ccn.ac.uk
Is your young person interested in university?
Contact Joseph Morley, our NEACO Coordinator, for everything from university advice and personal statement tips. You can email him at joseph.morley@ccn.ac.uk