‘Generation Z’, people born in the early 1990s, also rated careers advice in schools as uninspiring, according to a new report from the Chartered Insurance Institute on student attitudes towards future careers.
The study of more than 1,500 sixth form and university students also found they were very clear about what is useful when it comes to careers information.
88% of sixth formers and 94% of university students said work placements or internships had been the most useful.
Just 19% of sixth formers would consider apprenticeships, while 68% of sixth formers and 63% of university students turn to careers websites.
75% believe their generation will find it much harder than their parents to have a good career.
Tory MP Dominic Raab, who serves on the Commons education select committee, said the research “can help us understand the aspirations of, and glass ceilings holding back, youngsters today”.
“Apprenticeships, vocational training, and non-graduate routes into the profession need to be vigorously promoted alongside the university route. It’s the best way to realise the ambitions of youngsters, and make sure they get bang for their buck out of the investment in their education.”
Despite the apparently future career anxiety amongst students there is some optimism, 79% said they are confident of finding a job, with 58% believing they will get the job they want.
Daniel Pedley of the Chartered Insurance Institute said:
“This is the first generation of students in 20 years to experience a recession first hand. They have seen the economy nose dive, they may have seen jobs losses in their family and friends. In addition to the endless reports on young people out of work it is little wonder they feel anxious about their future career prospects.
“What is cause for great concern is how poorly serviced sixth form students are by careers advice in their schools. At a time when they need help the most to make an informed decision careers advice is lacking.”
CII’s research shows there is still a lack of understanding about apprenticeships among students.
Only 20% said they would consider an apprenticeship as a route into a future career, with 35% believing they only serve practical industries. However, the ‘earn while you learn’ message is breaking through with young people, 71% who said they would consider an apprenticeship say this was the main attraction.
“It is clear a lot of work is still required to change attitudes towards apprenticeships and what they offer young people’s career prospects,” said Pedley.
“There is a rich variety of careers available through the apprenticeship route including many of the so called traditional professions of insurance, law and finance.
“Apprenticeships offer a fantastic route into a myriad of professional careers and it is the responsibility of employers, government, schools and the media to promote them.
“The CII is working directly with employers to develop the next generation of apprenticeship standards . Our involvement with the Government’s ‘TrailBlazers’ programme is supporting employers build apprenticeships that are fit for purpose to develop in young talent the skills they need in the workplace.”