Raising Aspirations and Challenging Stereotypes

Encounters with employers & alumni

Employers who share their work route journey and the nature of  their role can have a huge impact on a student in terms of what might interest them as well as what is achievable.

• It is essential to break down any barriers which might be hindering a student from reaching their potential, challenging stereotypes in all areas
• Social mobility research shows that almost half of people believe backgrounds define limitations in the workplace

Planning career activities

• Ensure the activity offer is not reinforcing stereotypes or generalisations which might prevent further exploration from students.
• When inviting professionals in to speak with students, seek examples which challenge gender stereotypes (Female engineers, male nurses and carers, female coders, male nursery nurses)
• When discussing different industry sectors ensure a range of roles are covered and not just the stereotypical ones
• Find inspiring speakers from deprived backgrounds that have achieved successful careers