Why Subject Teachers Are the Key to Meaningful Careers Education

Why Subject Teachers Are the Key to Meaningful Careers Education

By a classroom teacher in their second year of teaching Computer Science

When I first started, I thought careers education was something for the dedicated careers lead. A few assemblies, a drop-down day, and a couple of posters. Job done. But as I’ve grown into the role, I’ve realised something important:

Careers conversations happen best in the classroom — in the flow of our subjects, not separate from them.

How careers create powerful classroom moments

It starts with a simple question:

"Sir, can you get a job just by knowing how to code?" "What’s the point of learning this? Who even uses it?"

These aren’t just off-task moments — they’re opportunities. Careers links give lessons a sense of direction. They take the theory we teach and give it real-world weight.

• Behaviour improves because students understand the ‘why’ behind the content
• Engagement goes up, especially when you link to jobs they’ve never heard of
• The subject becomes more than just another exam — it becomes a stepping stone

Elevating lessons through purpose

In Computer Science, I’ve used everything from AI in healthcare to the role of ethical hackers. Suddenly, algorithms and binary feel important. Relevant. Even exciting.

A 60-second chat about careers can do more than a whole hour of theory. It makes students feel like what they’re doing *matters*.

You don’t need a new lesson plan. Just a small link — a story, a job title, a question to explore.

Careers links aid real progression

KS3 students often don’t see the end goal. At KS4, they feel the pressure of choices. Careers links help with both:

• KS3: Spark curiosity and plant the seed early
• KS4: Help students connect GCSE content with future paths

I’ve had Year 9s go from dropping the subject to asking about apprenticeships in cybersecurity — just because I linked a topic to a real job. That’s the power we have as subject teachers.

We give students purpose

Not everyone will become a software developer. But everyone deserves to know why they’re learning what we’re teaching.

Careers education doesn’t need to be “extra.” With tools like Career LinkED, you can:

• Find ready-made job profiles linked to your subject
• Play a 1-minute employer video to end your lesson with impact
• Give your students a reason to care — and maybe, a path to follow

We’re not just teaching content. We’re shaping futures.

Start your free trial with Career LinkED and try it this week — no planning, just plugging careers into what you already do.