Explore careers
Explore different careers, understand what could suit you and turn your research into a practical next step.
Start with what you know about yourself
You do not need to choose a job title straight away. A better starting point can be thinking about what you enjoy, what you are good at and what kind of working life you want.
What do you enjoy?
Think about subjects, hobbies, projects or activities that hold your attention.
What are you good at?
Include practical skills, communication, creativity, organisation, problem-solving and things other people ask you for help with.
What kind of environment suits you?
For example: indoors or outdoors, working with people, working independently, practical tasks, technology or creative work.
Explore job profiles and skills
The National Careers Service on GOV.UK has job profiles and tools that can help you research different careers.
Visit the National Careers Service on GOV.UK →Do not judge a career by the job title alone
When you find something interesting, look beyond the headline. Try to understand what the work actually involves and what you would need to get started.
What would I actually do?
Look at the day-to-day tasks, not just the title.
How could I get into it?
Check qualifications, training routes, experience and whether there is more than one way in.
Does it fit me?
Think about working hours, location, environment, progression and the things you value.
You do not have to find one perfect career
Most people build their working life over time. Your next decision only needs to move you in a useful direction and keep good options open.
Turn research into a next step
Talk it through
A careers guidance practitioner can help you make sense of what you have found.
Get careers guidance →Compare routes after Year 11
See how college, apprenticeships, T Levels and other routes differ.
Compare your options →Build experience
Find ways to learn about work and strengthen your CV.
Jobs and work experience →Need help?
A careers guidance practitioner can help you understand your options and decide what to do next.