How careers talks boost GCSE grades

LEARNING about the world of work helps pupils to get better GCSE grades, research shows.

Low-achievers were particularly likely to work harder after learning more about their future prospects, a study found.

Researchers examined a group of around 650 secondary school pupils in England the year before their GCSEs. Some were given careers talks and meetings with employers.

The pupils who had careers sessions were slightly more likely to exceed their predicted GCSE grades. Those expected to get the worst grades showed a 9 per cent increase in revision hours if they had the career sessions. The researchers, commissioned by the charity Education and Employers, said employers and those with first-hand experience of different industries appeared to provide more ‘authentic’ influences on GCSE pupils.

Dr Elnaz Kashefpakdel, the charity’s head of research, told the BBC: ‘Those who were initially more sceptical of the value of the education reported a greater increase in motivation to study harder.’

Education Secretary Damian Hinds said: ‘This report underlines the value of good careers education which builds confidence, broadens horizons and fuels ambition.’