As your child navigates the transition from school to the next stage of their education or career, it’s essential to strike a balance between supporting their ambitions and encouraging their independence.
Let’s explore how to manage the practical aspects that come with these changes.
Supporting Apprenticeships or Full time Employment
Encouraging your child to join the world of work whether through an apprenticeship or through traditional paid work, can be a rewarding decision which offers valuable hands-on experience, a salary, and a pathway to a future career. Here are some key points to consider:
- Encourage Responsibility
It’s important for your child to take ownership of their apprenticeship. This includes adhering to work schedules, managing their time effectively, and understanding the importance of not calling in sick without a valid reason. They also need to call in sick for themselves. Don’t be tempted to call on their behalf, afterall an apprenticeship is a paid job! - Managing Study and Work Commitments
Full-time courses in further education (FE) often only require attendance a few days a week (despite being advertised as full time), leaving room for part-time work. This can be an excellent opportunity for your child to gain work experience and earn some income. Try and encourage them to keep busy and fill the days they are not in college with paid work, volunteering or sports to get them into the swing of a full working week. - Understanding the Impact on Family
If your child decides to pursue an apprenticeship or part-time work, it’s crucial to understand how this might affect your family’s finances including any benefits you currently gain from having children in full time education. Apprenticeships are considered employment, which may impact eligibility for certain benefits. Contact the government website for advice on this matter.
If your child is earning a wage you may wish to have the conversation around a contribution to the family budget which will also give them a realistic expectation of how to manage a budget and the cost of household bills and food.
Conclusion
Balancing the transition from school to work or further education is a significant step for both parents and children. By encouraging independence, responsibility, and understanding the practical implications, you can help your child make a successful transition. This period is not just about academic or career choices but also about developing life skills that will benefit them in the long run.