At St Mary’s, we believe that introducing children to the world of work from an early age helps them understand the value of learning and inspires their future aspirations. Teaching children about careers encourages curiosity, broadens their horizons, and helps them see how their skills and interests can make a difference in the world.

Job adverts for children

Giving children the chance to apply for classroom jobs helps them develop confidence, responsibility, and essential life skills. Roles such as Regenerators, who help care for our school environment, and coming soon.. Reading Buddies! Who will support younger pupils with their reading, allow children to make a real difference in their community. 

Allowing our children to apply for these positions teaches them how to present themselves positively, work as part of a team, and take pride in their contributions. These experiences prepare them for future opportunities and help them understand the value of commitment and service. 

Curriculum Overview

We have carefully selected the range of careers introduced at each stage of a child’s learning to ensure they are meaningful, aspirational and developmentally appropriate. Our approach is rooted in four key principles: curriculum links, progression, pupil interests, and our local context. The careers we explore are deliberately aligned with our curriculum subjects to deepen understanding and provide real-world relevance. For example, careers linked to science, such as healthcare professionals or environmental scientists, are introduced alongside scientific units, while creative roles are embedded within art, design, and English. This ensures careers education is not an “add-on” but an integral part of learning, helping children to see purpose and application in what they are studying. 

We recognise that engagement is key to impact. Careers are chosen and adapted to reflect children’s interests, current topics, and the questions they ask about the world. This helps to foster curiosity and motivation, particularly for pupils with SEND, by connecting learning to something tangible and relatable. Where possible, we incorporate hands-on experiences, role play, and visitor input to bring these careers to life. Our provision reflects the opportunities within our local area, helping children to understand the world of work around them. We highlight careers linked to local industries, services, and employers, enabling pupils to see realistic pathways within their community while also inspiring them to think beyond it. This balance ensures pupils develop both a sense of belonging and ambition. 

Careers Week 2026

Our Careers Week 2026 was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to explore the wider world of work and begin to imagine their own future pathways. Throughout the week, children engaged with an exciting range of visitors, each offering a unique insight into their profession and the skills required to succeed. 

We were delighted to welcome professionals from a variety of industries, including an illustrator, doctor, travel agent, personal trainer, makeup artist, optician, midwife, early help worker, lifeguards, marine biologist, engineers, and representatives from The Sill, Egger, and EEF Energy. Pupils also learned about careers in the community through visits from a bookshop owner, dental clinic team, and baker. 

These experiences allowed pupils to: 

• Ask questions and develop a deeper understanding of different career pathways 

• Recognise the importance of skills such as teamwork, resilience and communication 

• Challenge stereotypes and broaden their aspirations 

• Make meaningful links between their learning in school and real-life careers 

By showcasing both local employers and more specialised roles, we aimed to inspire children while helping them understand opportunities within and beyond our community. Careers Week is a key part of our commitment to preparing pupils for the future, raising aspirations, and ensuring every child can see a place for themselves in the world of work.