As parents, so much of our time is spent focusing on the present — packed lunches, revision timetables, late-night chats, and early morning rushes.
But quietly, steadily, the next chapter approaches:
Life after school.
University. Apprenticeships. Careers. Independence.
It can feel a little overwhelming — for them and for us.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out at once. With small, intentional steps, you can help your child feel more prepared, more confident, and more hopeful about what lies ahead.
Here are some heartfelt, practical ways to guide your child as they prepare for university and their working life beyond.
💪 1. Encourage a Healthy Work Ethic
Work ethic isn’t about pushing them harder. It’s about showing them the value of effort, commitment, and follow-through — traits that will carry them far, wherever life takes them.
You can help by:
- Encouraging part-time work — something simple, like a Saturday job. It teaches responsibility and helps them appreciate the value of money.
- Giving regular household tasks. Not as punishment, but as a shared contribution to family life.
- Leading by example. Let them see you show up with dedication — even on the hard days.
It’s the everyday habits that shape character.
🎨 2. Support Their Passions Through Activities
Whether it’s sport, drama, art, coding, or volunteering — extra-curriculars help your child discover who they are. They build confidence, teamwork, and passion — and those shine through on university applications and job interviews.
Try:
- Asking what excites them — what they’d love to try or improve.
- Encouraging consistency — sticking at something even when it gets tough.
Remember, it’s not about being the best. It’s about finding joy in doing.
🕰️ 3. Teach Time and Money Management
University brings freedom, but also responsibility. One of the greatest gifts you can offer is helping your child learn how to manage both their time and money wisely.
Help them by:
- Talking about budgeting — show them how you plan for bills, groceries, savings.
- Encouraging them to use a planner, or set routines around studying, resting, and socialising.
- Involving them in financial decisions — even something small like planning a weekly shop or saving up for a trip.
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being prepared.
🌱 4. Help Them Discover Their Strengths and Challenges
Not every child knows what they want to “be” — and that’s okay. But self-awareness can guide their choices with more confidence.
You can:
- Talk openly about what they enjoy, what drains them, what they’re naturally good at.
- Try online skills or personality assessments together.
- Reflect with them after activities — “How did that make you feel?” “Would you do it again?”
University and careers become less scary when they’re based on who they truly are.
🤝 5. Teach the Value of Relationships and Networking
In a world that’s increasingly connected, relationships matter. Whether it’s tutors, peers, or future employers — knowing how to build and maintain meaningful connections is a real strength.
Support them to:
- Attend local university fairs, career days, or community events.
- Say thank you to teachers and mentors who’ve supported them.
- Explore platforms like LinkedIn when appropriate (with guidance if they’re under 18).
Even learning to introduce themselves with confidence is a powerful step forward.
🧠 6. Explore Pre-University Courses and Skill Workshops
Many universities and local organisations offer taster sessions or workshops to help students feel more prepared. These can be a game changer — especially for young people who feel anxious or unsure.
Look out for:
- Study skills sessions
- Time management or life skills classes
- CV-building and interview prep workshops
Check with sixth forms, youth groups, or even the local council — many of these resources are free or low cost.
💬 A Final Word, From One Parent to Another
Preparing your child for university and a future career isn’t a checklist — it’s a journey. And some days, it might feel like you’re fumbling in the dark.
But just by being present, by listening, by encouraging — you’re already doing so much.
They may not say it now. But one day, they’ll look back and realise that your love, guidance, and gentle nudges helped shape the life they built.
So keep planting those little seeds.
Keep holding space for the big conversations.
And when in doubt — just remind them: You believe in them.
Because that belief might be the very thing that carries them through.
Let us pray – O ‘Lord continue to order the steps of our teens in Jesus mighty name, Amen.