Research Your Career
Options, Ideas and Tips
Scroll through to find topics of interest. If any of the links don’t work, please email David.Oakes@birmingham.gov.uk
Option Choices & General Career Decisions Information
Apprenticeships
You can search and apply for apprenticeships using the website www.apprenticeships.gov.uk School leaver apprenticeships will have a start date on or after 1st July 2025 and most will start to be advertised around March/April 2025.
The Birmingham Careers Service factsheet ‘Applying for Apprenticeships’ provides further information about applying for apprenticeships.
Website/ Resource
National Apprenticeship website: https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/
Amazing Apprenticeships: https://amazingapprenticeships.com
Eclips Leaflet
Apprenticeships and work-based learning: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.16
Degree Apprenticeships
A degree apprenticeship allows you to study a degree while working. You spend 80% of your time working and 20% of your time studying. All the costs of your degree are covered by your employer.
Website/ Resource
Apprenticeships and work-based learning: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.16
National Apprenticeship website: www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/
Amazing Apprenticeships: amazingapprenticeships
Gap Year
A gap year can offer the opportunity to gain new skills and experiences
Website/ Resource
General: not sure what to do/undecided
Choosing a career can be difficult. But it’s important you don’t rush into making choices. Use these links to help you explore the wide range of careers and plan your future.
Website/ Resource
Career Planning – How to choose a career: prospects how-to-choose-a-career
Careerpilot – ‘Start with You’ quizzes & other careers information: https://careerpilot.org.uk
UCAS Careers Quiz: career-quiz
Explore Careers by Subject Interest: job-sectors/subjects
Course Finder: National Careers Service: find-a-course
National Careers Service Skills Assessment: skills-assessment
Eclips Leaflet
Planning your future: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/1.01
Do what you want to do!: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/1.06
Useful websites: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/1.05
International / Overseas Students
UKCISA https://ukcisa.org.ukare a charity and membership organisation supporting international students and all who work with them. They provide a range of advice for international students, including Brexit, immigration, fees, and wellbeing.
Website/ Resource
NARIC (Qualification’s comparison): naric.net
Study UK: study-uk.britishcouncil.
UK Council for International Student Affairs: https://ukcisa.org.uk/
Online courses
MOOCs www.mooc.org(Massive Open Online Courses) are free online courses available to add value to your learning and all post-16/18 applications.
Website/ Resource
Future Learn: www.futurelearn.com
Mooc: https://www.mooc.org/
National Careers Service: nationalcareers.service.
Eclips Leaflet
Distance and open learning: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/2.37
SEND Support
Your local offer website provides help, advice, and information about services available to children/ young people with a Special Educational Need or Disability. This includes support with education, physical and mental health, social care, leisure activities and moving forward towards independence and adulthood.
Website/ Resource
Birmingham Local Offer: https://www.localofferbirmingham.co.uk/
Solihull Local Offer: https://www.solihull.gov.uk/children-and-family-support/localoffer
National Autistic Society: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/transitions/england/leaving-school
National Deaf Childrens Society: https://www.ndcs.org.uk/information-and-support/education-and-learning/your-childs-future/further-education-at-16plus/
Student Finance
There may be funding available to support you with your studies. Speak to your college/ sixth form / training provider to find out more. Higher Education is funded by Government student loans.
Website/ Resource
FE 16-19 Student Bursary: https://www.gov.uk/1619-bursary-fund
HE Student Finance: https://www.ucas.com/moneyhttps://www.gov.uk/student-finance
HE Disabled Students Allowance:https://www.ucas.com/student-finance-england/disabled-students-allowance
Work / Work Experience / Volunteering
CVs and Cover Letters
A CV (Curriculum Vitae) Is a written overview of your education, skills, and experience. It can be sent to a prospective employer when searching for a new job or it may be required as part of the job application process.
Website/ Resource
Barclays Life Skills: barclayslifeskills
National Careers Service: nationalcareers.service
Eclips Leaflet
CV writing for young people: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.08
How to find a job: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.10
Job applications: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.11
Labour Market Information
Labour Market Information (LMI) describes the world of work. It tells us about: different careers; their entry routes; the availability of jobs; future demand; promotional prospects; salaries paid; skills and qualifications needed.
Website/ Resource
I could: www.icould.com
LMI for all: www.lmiforall.org.uk (download a free widget to compare LMI across different jobs and sectors)
Eclips Leaflet
Job market trends: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.05
Preparing for Interviews
It is important to prepare for interviews – including those for college, 6th form and apprenticeships.
Website/ Resource
Barclays Life Skills: barclayslifeskills
Preparing for your college interview: Preparing-for-your-college-or-training-interview
Eclips Leaflet
Coping with interviews: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.13
Self-Employment
When you are 18 you can access support from the Princes Trust to turn ideas into a business reality through their Enterprise programme.
Website/ Resource
Eclips Leaflet
Working for yourself: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.23
Working from home: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.22
Volunteering
Volunteering is an excellent way to develop your confidence, employability skills and help to prepare you for the world of work
Website/ Resource
Volunteer Now: https://www.volunteernow.co.uk/
Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org.uk/get-involved/opportunities-for-young-people
Do It: https://doit.life/volunteer
Eclips Leaflet
Voluntary opportunities in the UK: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/3.02
Voluntary opportunities overseas: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/3.03
Work Experience / World of Work
Work Experience is a great way for you to learn more about the world of work and careers that may be of interest to you. It also helps develop your skills and personal qualities.
Website/ Resource
Springpod (virtual work experience): pringpod
Medic Mentor (virtual work experience – Medicine, Dentistry, Allied Health and Veterinary): medicmentor
Speakers for Schools, Virtual Work Experience: speakersforschools
Virtual Work Experience and Internships: prospects.
Eclips Leaflet
Work experience: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.02
Under school leaving age and working. What’s legal?: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.19
Temporary work: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.21
Part-time work: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.20
National Citizenship Service
The National Citizenship Service is a voluntary personal and social development program for 15-17-year-olds.
Website/ Resource
Careers Information
Accountancy
Accountants give specialist financial help and advice to individuals and organisations.
Website/ Resource
CIMA: Secure the Future
of your Career in Finance | CIMA (cimaglobal.com)
UCAS Subject Guide: ucas accounting
Sector Guide: prospects accountancy-banking-and-finance
Eclips Leaflet
Accountancy: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/IA_01
Careers in finance: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/I_01
Acting
As an actor you would use speech, movement, and expression to bring characters to life.
Website/ Resource
Screen Skills: screenskills film-and-tv-drama/
Creative and Cultural Skills: https://ccskills.org.uk/
Actor: job-profiles/actor
Eclips Leaflet
Careers in theatre: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/Q_06
Drama and acting: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/Q_01
Animal Care
Animals in rescue centres, animal hospitals and sanctuaries need looking after 7 days a week. As an animal care worker, you would be providing this care (which would include feeding, exercise, cleaning etc).
Website/ Resource
RSPCA Careers working with animals: rspca.org.uk jobs/profiles
British Veterinary Association: becoming-a-vet/
Zoology: zoology
Eclips Leaflet
Veterinary surgeon: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HC_08
Veterinary nurse: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HC_07
Working with animals: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HC_01
Working with horses: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HC_03
Animal welfare: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HC_06
Zoology and animal science: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_19
Animation
Animation is the process of displaying still images in a rapid sequence to create the illusion of movement.
Website/ Resource
Eclips Leaflet
Archaeology
Archaeologists study sites and objects to learn about the past.
Website/ Resource
Prospects Job Profile: archaeologist
UCAS Subject Guide – Archaeology: ucas archaeology
Solihull Sixth Form College offer a specialist archaeology enrichment option:solihullsfc.ac.uk/course/archaeology-academy/
Eclips Leaflet
Archaeology: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/K_04
Architecture
An architect plans, designs and oversees the construction of new buildings, extensions, and alterations to existing buildings.
Website/ Resource
The Royal Institute of British
Architects:how-to-become-an-architect
Architecture: careers/apprenticeships
UCAS Subject Guide: architecture-building-and-planning
Eclips Leaflet
Architecture: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BA_01
Astronomy – Space Careers
There are a wide range of careers available in astronomy including cosmologists, planetary geologists and engineers.
Website/ Resource
Astronomer Job Profile: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/astronomer
Space Careers: https://spacecareers.uk/home
Eclips Leaflet
Astronomy and space science: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_06
Barbering
Barbers cut, trim and style customers’ hair, beards, and moustaches.
Website/ Resource
Barber: job-profiles/barber
Beauty Therapy
To work in this field, you will need good customer service skills, creativity, patience, the ability to work well with your hands to give treatments and be able to work well with others.
Website/ Resource
Beauty Therapy Job Profile: job-profiles/beauty-therapist
Make-up Artist: job-profiles/make-up-artist
Eclips Leaflet
Beauty therapy and related careers : http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/RC_01
Beauty consultant: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/RC_02
Business
There are many opportunities in the world of business, as different functions make up the smooth running of organisations – Management, Human Resources, Finance, Marketing, Sales, Logistics, Administration.
Website/ Resource
Business and Management: business-consulting-and-management
UCAS Subject Guide: business-and-management-studies
Eclips Leaflet
Working in business: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/AA_01
Marketing: an overview: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/O_06
Accountancy: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/IA_01
Investment banking: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/IF_05
Economist: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/IF_02
Childcare
There are a wide range of careers that involve working with children, including Nursery Nurse, Play Therapist, Teaching Assistant, Teacher and Childrens Nurse
Website/ Resource
Childcare: /job-sectors/childcare
Early Years Educator: earlyyearseducator.co.uk/
Early Years Teacher: job-profiles/early-years-teacher
Playworker: job-profiles/playworker
Teaching Assistant: job-profiles/teaching-assistant
Eclips Leaflet
Nursery and early years childcare and education: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/F_03
Working with children: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/V_02
Playworker: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/F_04
Civil Engineering
Civil Engineers design, build and shape the world around us.
Website/ Resource
Go Construct: goconstruct
Civil Engineer: job-profiles/civil-engineer
Eclips Leaflet
Civil engineering: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BB_09
Computing
There are a variety of roles available in computing including coding, software development and cyber security. Computing is a growing sector.
Website/ Resource
TIGA (Video Games Industry Information): https://tiga.org/about-tiga-and-our-industry/about-uk-video-games-industry
The Chartered Institute for IT: https://www.bcs.org/
Screen Skills: https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/games
Cyber Security: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/cyber-security-analyst
Roles in the IT sector:https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/job-sectors/information-technology
Eclips Leaflet
Software design and development: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/D_06
Games design and development: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/D_07
Digital careers – an introduction to the work and training: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/D_01
Web and app design: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/D_03
Tech and digital support: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/D_02
Construction
The construction industry encompasses a wide range of occupations. There are many different construction trades including bricklayers, carpenters, painter and decorators, electricians, plasterers, roofers, and plumbers. There are also many workers involved in building projects.
Website/ Resource
Go Construct: https://www.goconstruct.org/
Electrician: job-profiles/electrician
Electrical Careers: www.electricalcareers.co.uk
Plumber: job-profiles/plumber
Eclips Leaflet
Electrical installation and maintenance: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GE_02
Surveying: property: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BC_06
Carpentry and joinery: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BB_04
Construction trades – an overview: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BB_01
Planning: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BC_08
Construction – technical work and management: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BB_02
Creative Careers
Opportunities are available in a range of areas including advertising and marketing, crafts, fashion, film and photography, digital design, music, performing and visual arts.
Website/ Resource
Careers in the Creative Arts:https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/job-sectors/creative-arts-and-design
Roles in the Creative Industries: https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/creative-industries/
Illustration: https://theaoi.com/inside-illustration/
Interior Design: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/interior-and-spatial-designer
Film, Cinematics and Photography: subjects/film-cinematics-and-photography
Association of Photographers: https://www.the-aop.org/information/the-industry/careers
Photographer: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/photographer
Graphic Design: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/graphic-designer
Fashion Designer:https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/fashion-designer
Eclips Leaflet
Creative therapies: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JG_01
Art and design – an introduction: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/E_01
Photography: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/PC_01
Fashion design: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/E_08
Graphic design: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/E_09
Careers in fashion – an overview: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/E_19
Tattooing and body piercing: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/RC_03
Careers in performance: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/Q_00
Criminology
Criminology is a mix of psychology and sociology, applied to the examination of crime and the patterns of crime.
Website/ Resource
What can I do with a degree in Criminology? https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/what-can-i-do-with-my-degree/criminology
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/criminology
Crime Scene Investigator:https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/crime-scene-investigator
Eclips Leaflet
Sociology, anthropology and criminology: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/K_03
Dance
Dancing is very competitive, and you’ll need to develop your skills by getting as much dancing experience as possible.
Website/ Resource
What can I do with a degree in Dance: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/what-can-i-do-with-my-degree/dance
Dancer: job-profiles/dancer
Dance Movement Psychotherapist: job-profiles/dance-movement-psychotherapist
Dance Schools / Training – CDMT: https://cdmt.org.uk/ – this website provides a list of CMT accredited schools and colleges.
Royal Ballet: www.royalballetschool.org
Tring (London): www.tringpark.com/
Elmhurst: https://elmhurstballetschool.org/en/
The Hammond: thehammond
Fees/ Funding Support for Private Dance Schools: https://www.gov.uk/dance-drama-awards
Eclips Leaflet
Dance and dance teaching: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/Q_03
Dentistry
Dentists prevent and treat dental decay and oral disease, correct malformations and treat dental and facial injuries.
Website/ Resource
British Dental Association: https://www.bda.org/careers
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/dentistry
UCAT: https://www.ucat.ac.uk/
Eclips Leaflet
Dentist: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JC_05
Careers in dental health: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JC_01
Dental nurse: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JC_02
Economist
Economists advise government departments, companies, banks, and other organisations about the economy. There is a variety of roles available.
Website/ Resource
Why Study Economics? www.whystudyeconomics.ac.uk
UCAS Subject Guide, Economics: subjects/economics
Eclips Leaflet
Engineering
Engineering is behind everything we use from apps to bikes, solar panels to medical equipment. Engineers design, create and innovate, they help to shape the world around us.
Website/ Resource
Enginuity – Engineering and Manufacturing role explorer:https://roleexplorer.enginuity.org/
Meet the future you quiz: https://mtfy.org.uk/
Careers in Aerospace: https://www.careersinaerospace.com/
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/engineering-and-technology
Chemical Engineer: job-profiles/chemical-engineer
Engineering and Manufacturing: job-sectors/engineering-and-manufacturing
Robotics Engineer: job-profiles/robotics-engineer
Eclips Leaflet
Automotive engineering and design: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GJ_05
Civil engineering: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BB_09
Electrical installation and maintenance: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GE_02
Engineering – areas of work: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/G_00
Electronics engineering: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GE_05
The railway industry: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/WD_01
Network and hardware engineering: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GE_03 Careers with design and technology: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/E_03
Aerospace engineering: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GA_01
Equine Careers
There are a range of careers available in the Equine sector. Positions include entry level and more senior roles.
Website/ Resource
British Equestrian: https://www.britishequestrian.org.uk/
The British Horse Society: equestrian-careers-guide/
Eclips Leaflet
Working with horses: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HC_03
Farming / Agriculture
There are a variety of jobs available in this sector of work ranging from farm worker and farm manager to agricultural consultant and plant breeder.
Website/ Resource
National Farming Union: https://www.nfuonline.com/
Farmers Weekly: https://www.fwi.co.uk/
Environment and Agriculture: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/job-sectors/environment-and-agriculture
Eclips Leaflet
Agriculture: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HA_01
Agricultural services and contracting: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HA_04
Graduate-level careers in agriculture: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HA_03
Finance
Finance is about the future growth and prosperity of a company, and includes forecasting, budgeting and financial analysis.
Website/ Resource
Accounting, Business and Finance: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/job-sectors/accountancy-banking-and-finance
Eclips Leaflet
Careers in finance: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/I_01
Fire Service Careers
Firefighters protect and save people and property from fire and other dangers. Firefighting is only one aspect of the work.
Website/ Resource
West Midlands Fire Service: careers/firefighter/
Firefighter: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/firefighter
Eclips Leaflet
The fire and rescue service: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/UC_01
Forensic Science
Forensics involves using scientific and technological methods to investigate crime.
Website/ Resource
Prospects Job Profile: job-profiles/forensic-scientist
National Careers Service: job-profiles/forensic-scientist
Crime Scene Investigator: job-profiles/crime-scene-investigator
Eclips Leaflet
Games Design and Development
Career areas include design, development, art & animation, audio work, testing and production.
Website/ Resource
Screen Skills: job-profiles/browse/games/
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/game-design
Eclips Leaflet
Games design and development: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/D_07
Geologist
Geologists study the structure and evolution of the earth.
Website/ Resource
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/geology
Eclips Leaflet
Green Careers
Green jobs are roles that focus on restoring and preserving the natural environment and our planet.
Website/ Resource
Green Careers: green-careers
Environment: browse-sector/environment-and-agriculture
Hairdressing / Barbering
Hairdressers are involved in all aspects of hair styling, including cutting, styling, colouring, applying hair extensions and hair pieces.
Website/ Resource
Hair Magazine: https://www.hairmagazine.co.uk/
Job Profile, Hairdresser: job-profiles/hairdresser
Eclips Leaflet
Hairdressing: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/RC_04
Health and Social Care
Careers in this sector focus on providing physical, emotional, and social support to people.
Website/ Resource
BASW (Social Work): become-social-worker
NHS Careers: www.healthcareers.nhs.uk
BACP Counselling Careers: www.bacp.co.uk/careers/careers-home/
Healthcare: job-sectors/healthcare
Eclips Leaflet
Social work: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/V_18
Careers in mental health: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/J_02
Health and medical careers: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/J_01 Working with people who need care and support: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/V_04
Horticulture
Horticulture provides many varied careers including:
Grounds Maintenance Worker
Greenkeeper
Landscape Designer
Forester
Plant Scientist
Garden Centre Worker / Manager
Gardener
Botanist
Website/ Resource
Royal Horticultural Society: careers-horticulture
Landscape Architect: job-profiles/landscape-architect
Landscaper: job-profiles/landscaper
Eclips Leaflet
Horticulture: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HB_03
Hospitality and Catering
Hospitality and Catering is a service industry, and many jobs involve a lot of contact with customers.
Website/ Resource
Tasty Careers: https://tastycareers.org.uk/
Hospitality and Food: job-categories/hospitality-and-food
Chef: job-profiles/chef
Baker: job-profiles/baker
Eclips Leaflet
Cooking and food preparation: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/C_03
Food science and technology: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TA_02
Working in hospitality: http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/C_01
Conference and exhibition organising: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/O_02
Humanitarian Work / Aid Work
Aid workers help people in overseas countries affected by man-made and natural disasters like earthquakes and war.
Website/ Resource
International Aid Worker:job-profiles/international-aid-development-worker
Red Cross:redcross.
Eclips Leaflet
Disaster management and relief: https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/UK_04
Interior Design
An Interior Designer works with clients to plan and design internal spaces including private homes, offices, hotels, and leisure spaces.
Website/ Resource
Interior Designer: job-profiles/interior-and-spatial-designer
The British Institute of Interior Design (Careers Hub): interior-design-careers-hub
Eclips Leaflet
Interior design – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/E_10
Journalism
Journalists report on what’s happening in the world and work for a range of media.
Website/ Resource
National Council for the Training of Journalists: https://www.nctj.com/
UCAS Subject Guide: /subjects/journalism
TED Talks – Journalism: topics/journalism
Eclips Leaflet
Journalism – areas of work – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/PB_05
Journalism – entry and training – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/PB_06
Languages
The study of a foreign language is highly regarded by many universities and helpful in a wide range of career areas.
Website/ Resource
Translation work: how-to-become-a-translator.html
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/languages
Eclips Leaflet
Work with languages – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/K_12 Translating and interpreting – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/K_13
Teaching English to speakers of other languages – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/F_05
Law
There are various roles available within law such as Solicitor, Barrister, Legal Executive, Paralegal, Conveyancer, Legal Secretary.
Website/ Resource
Law Careers: https://www.lawcareers.net/
The Law Society: becoming-a-solicitor/
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/law
Solicitor: job-profiles/solicitor
International Law: what-is-international-law/
Eclips Leaflet
Careers in law – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/L_01
Barristers – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/L_03
Solicitors – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/L_13
Legal support work – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/L_14
Paralegal work – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/L_16
Locksmith
The Master Locksmith Association website provides further information about the role of a locksmith and training courses available.
Website/ Resource
Master Locksmith Association im-interested-in-becoming-a-locksmith-what-should-i-do
Eclips Leaflet
Security systems installation and locksmithing – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GE_09
Marine Biology
Marine Biology is the study of organisms and ecosystems in the oceans.
Website/ Resource
Marine Biology Association:https://www.mba.ac.uk/careers
Marine Biologist: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/marine-biologist
Eclips Leaflet
Marine and freshwater biology – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_16
Marketing
Marketing is an essential part of any business operation. It’s all about understanding the customer and making sure the products or services people want or need are available.
Website/ Resource
Chartered Institute of Marketing: get-into-marketing/
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/marketing
Job Profile, Digital Marketer: job-profiles/digital-marketer
Eclips Leaflet
Marketing: an overview – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/O_06
Advertising – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/O_01
Digital marketing – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/O_11
Media
Media is a broad term covering newspapers, magazines, publishing, radio, TV broadcasting, film production and interactive media companies.
Website/ Resource
Screenskills: www.screenskills.com
Career Pilot: job-sectors/media
Eclips Leaflet
Working in the media – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/P_01
Careers in radio – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/PA_10
Medicine
To become a doctor, you will need to undertake a five-year medical degree at university or through a Medical Doctor degree apprenticeship.
Website/ Resource
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/medicine-and-allied-subjects
UCAT: https://www.ucat.ac.uk/
NHS Careers: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/
Uni Guide: what-a-levels-do-you-need-to-become-a-doctorArmy (Medical Careers): https://jobs.army.mod.uk/regular-army/types-of-roles/medical/
Surgeon: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/surgeon
Medic Mentor (virtual work experience):university-hospitals-birmingham-trust-virtual-work-experience/
Eclips Leaflet
Health and medical careers – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/J_01
Medicine – an introduction to the work and training – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JH_01
Specialties in medicine and surgery – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JH_02
Merchant Navy / Careers at Sea
Roles in the Merchant Navy include navigating officers, marine engineers, marine electro-technical officers and catering roles.
Website/ Resource
Careers at Sea: https://www.careersatsea.org/
Merchant Navy: /job-profiles/merchant-navy-rating
Eclips Leaflet
The Merchant Navy – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/WF_01
Midwife / Health Visitor
Midwives support pregnant women and their babies before, during and after, childbirth.
Website/ Resource
Royal College of Midwives: become-a-midwife/
NHS Careers: http://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/midwifery
Eclips Leaflet
Midwifery – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JI_07
Health Visitor https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/health-visitor
Military Careers
The Armed Forces comprises the Army, the Royal Navy & Marines and the Royal Air Force (RAF).
Website/ Resource
The British Army: https://www.army.mod.uk/careers/
The Royal Navy: royalnavy.mod.uk/careers/
Armed Forces, Job Sectors: armed-forces-careers Armed Services Careers Office, Birmingham: army-career-centre-finder/birmingham Tel: 0121 633 6433
Military Preparation College Birmingham:mpct
Eclips Leaflet
The Armed Forces – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/UA_01
Royal Air Force – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/UA_03
The Army – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/UA_02
Royal Navy and Royal Marines – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/UA_04
Motor Sport
Opportunities exist in engineering and manufacturing, business and marketing and finance.
Website/ Resource
Motor sport apprenticeships:f1-apprenticeships/
The Motor sports Industry Association: Motorsport Industry via, https://the-mia.com/page/careers
Eclips Leaflet
Motor Vehicle
There are a vast range of careers available in the automotive industry including production, retail, servicing, repair, leasing, and renting.
Website/ Resource
Institute of the Motor Industry: explore-job-roles/
BMW: bmwgroup
Halfords: halfordscareers.com/apprenticeships
Eclips Leaflet
Motor vehicle maintenance and repair – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GJ_02
Working in the motor industry – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GJ_01
Music
A career in music requires a range of skills and competencies. Music Production involves engineers, musicians, artists, marketers, and writers.
Website/ Resource
Careers in Music: job-sectors/creative-arts-and-design/careers-in-music
What can I do with a Music degree?/what-can-i-do-with-my-degree/music
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/music
Music: job-sectors/subject/music
Eclips Leaflet
Sound recording – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/GE_06
Careers for musicians and singers – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/Q_04
Interested in music? – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/Q_05
Nursing
Nurses monitor and assess the physical, psychological and social needs of patients, and plan and deliver the care required. Nurses work in many roles and settings.
Website/ Resource
NHS Careers: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/
The Royal College of Nursing: ecome-a-nurse
Nursing Apprenticeships: job-sectors/healthcare/nursing-apprenticeships
Eclips Leaflet
Nursing – an introduction to the work and training – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JI_04
Nursing associate – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JI_09
Nutritionist / Dietician
A Nutritionist uses their knowledge of the science of food to provide advice and support to individuals and groups about what they eat.
A Dietician will assess, diagnose, and treat dietary and nutritional problems.
Website/ Resource
Nutritionist: job-profiles/nutritionist
Dietician: job-profiles/dietitian
Eclips Leaflet
Dietetics – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JG_03
Optometrist
Optometrists are trained to test and recognise visual defects and abnormalities, give advice on visual difficulties, and prescribe glasses and fit contact lenses.
Website/ Resource
Association of Optometrists: www.aop.org.uk/your-career/career-choices
Optometrist Job Profile: job-profiles/optometrist
Eclips Leaflet
Optical work – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JJ_01
Orthoptist – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JJ_02
Paramedic
A Paramedic is a healthcare professional who responds to emergency calls for medical help.
Website/ Resource
College of Paramedics: Become a Paramedic (collegeofparamedics.co.uk)
NHS Careers: www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/paramedic-science
WMAS: https://wmas.nhs.uk/.
Eclips Leaflet
Paramedic – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JI_00
Ambulance service – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JI_01
Performing Arts
The performing arts industry includes jobs in music, theatre, dance, and opera. As well as performance-based roles there are also a wide range of behind-the-scenes roles.
Website/ Resource
Get into Theatre: www.getintotheatre.orgDrama Therapy: job-profiles/dramatherapist
Eclips Leaflet
Careers in theatre – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/Q_06
Costumes, sets and props work – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/Q_07
Pharmacist
A Pharmacist is responsible for the dispensing and supplying of prescription medication. Pharmacists also provide health advice and information.
Website/ Resource
NHS Careers: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/
Community Pharmacist: job-profiles/community-pharmacist
Eclips Leaflet
Pharmacist – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JK_01
Pharmacology – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JK_02
Careers in pharmaceuticals – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/NA_03
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists diagnose and treat people with a broad range of physical problems that affect movement.
Website/ Resource
NHS Careers: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists: https://www.csp.org.uk/careers-jobs/career-physiotherapy
Eclips Leaflet
Physiotherapy – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JG_05
Sports therapy – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JG_08
Pilot
Airline pilots fly aircraft on long and short haul flights – some a mixture of both. Their duties start well before take off.
Website/ Resource
Air Cadets, Birmingham: https://aircadetswbw.org/
Careers in Aerospace: https://www.careersinaerospace.com/
British Airline Pilots Association: https://www.balpa.org/Becoming-a-pilot
UK Civil Aviation Authority website, https://www.caa.co.uk/data-and-analysis/
Eclips Leaflet
Pilot – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/WA_04
Air traffic controllers – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/WA_02
Police Work
Police officers are responsible for maintaining law and order, and make sure the public and there property are protected.
Website/ Resource
College of Policing: https://www.college.police.uk/career-learning/joining-police
Detective work (alternative route) www.policenow.org.uk/national-detective-programme
Police Officer: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/police-officer
West Midlands Police Cadet Scheme:https://www.west-midlands.police.uk/your-options/wmp-cadets#
Eclips Leaflet
Police work – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/UG_02
Police community support officer – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/UG_04
Politics
Jobs involved with politics include MP, councillor, party agent or researcher for an elected member.
Website/ Resource
Politics: https://www.careerpilot.org.uk/job-sectors/politics
UK Parliament: work-placements-and-apprenticeships/
Eclips Leaflet
Politics – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/L_10
Property Development
Property development is all about adapting, redesigning and redecorating property to sell it on at a profit. Property developers need strong business skills, an ability to handle many different tasks at the same time and work to deadlines.
Website/ Resource
Commercial Real Estate: https://www.cbre.com
Eclips Leaflet
Property development – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BC_09
Psychology
There are a range of careers available in the field of Psychology, including Forensic Psychologist, Clinical Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Educational Psychologist and Sport and Exercise Psychologist.
Website/ Resource
British Psychological Society:https://www.bps.org.uk/public/become-psychologist
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/psychology
Forensic Psychology:https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/forensic-psychologist
Eclips Leaflet
Psychology: an overview of the work and training – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/V_11
Counselling careers – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/V_12
Radiographer
There are two distinct disciplines of radiography: diagnostic radiographers work with patients who need clinical examinations, while therapeutic radiographers work with patients undergoing radiotherapy.
Website/ Resource
NHS Careers: www.healthcareers.nhs.uk
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/radiography-and-medical-technology
Diagnostic Radiographer: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/diagnostic-radiographer
Therapeutic Radiographer: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/therapeutic-radiographer
Eclips Leaflet
Diagnostic and therapeutic radiography – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/JF_04
Retail
A variety of opportunities exists, with jobs ranging from those requiring very few qualifications, to those at degree level.
Website/ Resource
Retail Week: https://www.retail-week.com/
Retail and Sales: ob-categories/retail-and-sales Career Pilot – Working in Retail: https://www.careerpilot.org.uk/job-sectors/retail
Eclips Leaflet
Retail work – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/SB_01
Science careers
There are a wide range of scientific careers available including opportunities in research, medical, business, education, and technology job sectors.
Website/ Resource
The Big Bang: https://www.thebigbang.org.uk/
Careers in Science and Pharmaceuticals:https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/job-sectors/science-and-pharmaceuticals
Careers in Science:https://www.careerpilot.org.uk/job-sectors/subject/science
Eclips Leaflet
STEM careers: an overview – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/1.14
Astronomy and space science – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_06 Zoology and animal science – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_19
Forensics – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_12 Careers with biochemistry – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_07
Careers using biological sciences – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_02 Marine and freshwater biology – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_16
Careers with physics – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_04
Careers with chemistry – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_03
Social Worker
As a social worker you will work with individuals and families experiencing a range of difficulties and support them to find positive solutions to their problems.
Website/ Resource
BASW: become-social-worker/how-become-social-worker
UCAS Subject Guide: Social Work subjects/social-work
Social Work: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/social-worker
Eclips Leaflet
Social work – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/V_18
Sport
Jobs in this sector can include professional sport roles, coaching, health promotion, fitness instruction and personal training.
Website/ Resource
Careers in Sport:https://careers-in-sport.co.uk/
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/sport
UK Sport: www.uksport.gov.uk
Sport England: www.sportengland.org
Sport / PE: job-sectors/subject/pe
Eclips Leaflet
Sports coaching – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/MB_08
Personal Trainer: job-profiles/personal-trainer
Professional sport – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/MB_02
Careers related to sport – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/MB_01
Sport and exercise science – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/MB_05
STEM Careers
Studying STEM subjects can open up a wide variety of career opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, aerospace, energy, healthcare, and information technology
Website/ Resource
STEM: https://www.stem.org.uk/
Careers in STEM: job-sectors/stem
Eclips Leaflet
STEM careers: an overview – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/1.14
Surveying
There are several types of Surveyor, some with highly specialised roles. These include:
Building Surveyor – Building Surveyors carry out structural surveying of properties and report on their condition and valuation.
Commercial /Property Surveyor – this includes auctioneering, estate agency, valuations, and estate management.
Quantity Surveyor – As a quantity surveyor you would work with an architect and play a key role in a building project, managing the costs from the early design plans, through to the building’s completion.
Website/ Resource
Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors: https://www.rics.org/uk/surveying-profession/what-is-surveying/
Building Surveyor: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/building-surveyor
Quantity Surveyor: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/quantity-surveyor
Commercial Surveyor: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/commercial-residential-surveyor
Eclips Leaflet
Surveying: property – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/BC_06
Teaching
Primary teachers are responsible for teaching the subjects in the school curriculum.Secondary teachers specialise in a particular subject and as secondary teacher you plan, teach and assess lessons in line with curriculum objectives.
Website/ Resource
Get into Teaching:getintoteaching.education
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/education Primary School Teacher: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/primary-school-teacher
Secondary School Teacher: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/secondary-school-teacher
Eclips Leaflet
Teaching English to speakers of other languages – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/F_05
Teaching in secondary schools – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/F_08
Teaching in nursery and primary schools – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/F_07
Travel and Tourism
Roles in Travel and Tourism include Travel Agent, Holiday Rep, Tour Guide, Air Steward, Events Manager and Tourist Information Officer.
Website/ Resource
National Careers Service: job-categories/travel-and-tourism
The Institute of Travel and Tourism: careers-advice/
Careers in Travel: https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers-in-travel/
Leisure and Tourism: job-sectors/leisure-sport-and-tourism
Eclips Leaflet
Working overseas – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/11.40
Air cabin crew – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/WA_01
Leisure and recreation management – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/MA_05 Jobs that involve travelling – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/W_01
Travel and tourism – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/MC_01
Vet
There are a variety of opportunities available as a vet including working with pets, farm animals and zoo animals. On a day-to-day basis most vets will diagnose and treat sick or injured animals, perform operations, give vaccinations and putting injured or ill animals to sleep. There are also opportunities for vets to carry out research roles into medical and scientific issues affecting animals.
Website/ Resource
British Veterinary Association: https://www.bva.co.uk/your-career/becoming-a-vet/
UCAS Subject Guide: subjects/veterinary-science
Veterinary Surgeon: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/veterinary-surgeon
Eclips Leaflet
Veterinary surgeon – http://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/HC_08
Vlogger / YouTuber / Influencer
Vloggers create short online films / content on a variety of subjects.
Website/ Resource
Vlogger: job-profiles/vlogger
Vlogger: job-profile/vlogger BBC Bitesize Case Study – How to become a Presenter and YouTuber: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zd6nkmn
Job Profile, Digital Marketer: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/digital-marketer
Eclips Leaflet
Influencer (Making a career online):https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/1.16
Zoology
Zoologists study animals and their behaviour. Zoologists can work in a lab environment, outdoors and even overseas.
Website/ Resource
Job Profile, Zoologist: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/zoologist
Eclips Leaflet
Zoology and animal science – https://www.eclips-online.co.uk/leaflet/TD_19
