As your child journeys through college and prepares for the next chapter of their life, it’s natural to have questions and concerns about their future. That’s where our dedicated Careers & Futures Team steps in! Led by Joanna Brown, our Careers & Futures Team – including Alison Varty, Jade Huckle and Jade Smalley – is here to support our students every step of the way. Here, Joanna outlines more about what they do and the different ways they support students.

Q: So, what kind of help does the Careers & Futures Team offer?

A: We offer independent and impartial advice on courses, universities, apprenticeships, and anything related to careers. But the support doesn’t stop there. We also focus on self-development, motivation, attitudes, and behaviours. It’s not just talking about jobs; it’s about empowering young people to lead fulfilling and successful lives.

Q: What qualifications do you have to offer career guidance?

A: Each member of our team is a qualified or qualifying career adviser up to at least degree-level. This ensures that your child receives expert guidance tailored to their individual needs and aspirations.

Q: How accessible is the support provided by the Careers Team?

A: We have offices at both campuses offering confidential one-to-one student appointments. Additionally, we organise events tailored to different subject areas, including career fairs where students can interact with employers, professionals and Higher Education. We also run workshops on LinkedIn and CV writing etc to equip students with other essential skills to help them get ahead in their careers.

Q: How does the Careers Team engage with parents?

A: If your child consents, you are welcome to attend their careers appointment, and we can also give you information on what they can do next, whether it’s more education or something different. We also help to reinforce the importance of maths and English and we get involved when attendance drops, helping students realise the value of education.

Q: What advice can you give to parents about supporting their child’s career choices?

A: Above all, the most important thing you can do as a parent is to listen to your child and reassure them that the Careers Team is here to help. Encourage them to explore lots of different career paths, try out work experience, and use resources such as Unifrog. It’s about broadening their horizons and encouraging them to have a plan for their futures.

Q: How do you keep parents informed about future job market trends?

A: As a team, we stay up to date with local labour market trends in Milton Keynes and share information on our website to give parents and students a heads-up on what’s out there.

Q: What’s the best part about your role?

A: We’re all about helping students find what makes them feel happy and fulfilled. Seeing our students thrive and eventually progress to the next stage of their lives is the most rewarding part of what we do.

Contact the Careers & Futures Team by emailing careersteam@mkcollege.ac.ukor by calling 01908 684156.