Confidence is lowest for discussing engineering careers (55%), and fathers are much more confident than mothers. This was seen across all three subject areas, with the largest gap being for engineering, where 58% of fathers are confident vs 25% of mothers.
This overall lack of confidence in giving STEM careers advice could be due to low awareness of all the different entry points into the sector.
For example:
- 42% of parents say they know a lot about university degrees, but only 20% said the same for apprenticeships.
- Only 15% know a lot about other vocational qualifications, 12% for BTECs, and just 5% for T levels.
- Over two-fifths (43%) of parents in England said they either hadn’t heard of T levels or were unsure if they had.
Becca Gooch, Head of Research at EngineeringUK, explains, “While schools play an important role in providing careers advice, we know that parents are the most consulted source of careers information by young people.
“It’s encouraging that parents recognise engineering and tech provide great career opportunities for young people, particularly as demand for these roles is growing in the UK. But the findings also highlight we need to ensure parents are empowered to support their child to discover the variety of interesting and rewarding jobs and entry routes available.
“This will help to ensure that young people from all backgrounds are being encouraged to consider these careers and know they are not beyond their reach.”
Of those parents who considered engineering to be attractive, the top three reasons were:
- Good earning potential (73%)
- Can work in many different industries (63%)
- Interesting work/profession (61%)
From T Levels and apprenticeships through to university degrees, the STEM sector offers opportunities for a diverse group of young people.
Jo Hollingdale, Senior Careers Inspiration Manager at EngineeringUK, comments, "With so much growth and endless opportunities to make a real-world impact, it’s a really exciting time for all young people to embark on a career in engineering and technology. From climate change and digital transformation, to healthcare and aerospace, there really is a role for everyone."
To download the report and find more about STEM careers conversations, visit the EngineeringUK website.
