talkingJobs: Testimonials

Testimonials

"I continue to be impressed by the resource that Talking Jobs provides. It’s rich with information, accessible, engaging and a powerful way of opening up career choices for those who might not have traditionally thought of themselves as able to pursue certain career paths. There are few things that are as successful as Talking Jobs at breaking down traditional stereotypes and opening up possibilities for both those looking for new careers or those advising other of career choices."

"This dismantles real barriers by making job possibilities accessible in a uniquely effective way."

"Talking Jobs is an incredibly powerful and important resource for young people; offering highly engaging, easily navigated and relevant material on careers and opportunities. Through providing access to real people's stories about their particular career/life journeys, coupled with the site's interactive tools and activities, Talking Jobs ensures a broad cross section of young society is able to explore choices they may not typically have considered available to them. Each user is able to find something meaningful to them...the beauty of this is how the resource can be navigated and shaped to provide tailored guidance to ensure the important choices they are about to make in terms of education, work and life are *informed* choices. The resource is also geared towards teachers and learning professionals who are looking to shape these futures; providing guidance and inspiration for lesson plans and discussions."

"The idea behind introducing young people to "everyday heroes" means that stereotypes are challenged, new levels of insight are gained and social inequality is thereby truly lessened. The premise that you are unlikely to consider a certain career unless you are exposed to it or have an understanding of how you can arrive at it is at the core of Talking Jobs; providing inspiration and motivation to allow young people to stretch their personal envelopes, based on their potential rather than the barriers of social expectation."

"... The Talking Jobs resource has enormous potential to provide high quality and up to date information about a wide range of careers. In addition to providing specific information this resource demonstrates the routes people from all kinds of backgrounds have taken to achieve personal success and fulfilment in their chosen careers."

Brian Lightman

Immediate Past President Association of School and College Leaders

Head Teacher St Cyres School, St Cyres Rd, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan

"Talking Jobs is an amazing resource, quite unlike any other work related resource I have come across. It gives a real insight into a wide range of careers. However it is not just about what different jobs involve. The people interviewed talk about less tangible things like what has influenced them, their family background and their quality of life. It goes beyond the simple job description and qualifications needed and gives students the sort information they could get if they actually met the individuals and knew all the right questions to ask them."

"My students really engaged with the web site. The lesson plans are excellent and provide meaningful activities for the students to do whilst still allowing them to develop independent learning skills. I am convinced that Talking Jobs will become an invaluable resource for PSHE, Careers Education and Diplomas. "

"As a PSHE teacher and careers co-ordinator I find it hard to fulfil the careers exploration and development part of careers education. In the past when I have had speakers in from the world of work, I have found it difficult to meet the needs of all the students. Those who have just joined a talk by default get little value from the experience, and can on occasion distract others from focussing. I also find it increasingly difficult to source a wide variety of professional and trades people to talk about their work. Either they are too busy, or they find it difficult talking to a group of students. This resource seems to solve all those problems and I welcome the chance to engage more students and broaden their horizons."

"A really exciting new educational resource... I can see applications for it in both PSHE and Careers teaching and am really looking forward to using it."