STEM in a Nutshell

This Nutshell explains what STEM is and why STEM skills are important. STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects give all young people important skills for their future lives and work. Employers are looking for young people with these skills, but there’s a big shortage. How we, as parents, talk about these subjects is very […]

Learner Journey

When it comes to thinking about options, parents have a big influence on what our children choose to do. It’s important to help our young people take the long view when it comes to making decisions. It’s not just about now; it’s also about what’s up ahead and makes most sense based on the future […]

Wider Achievement in a Nutshell

You’ll probably hear teachers use the words ‘wider achievement’. This means everything that children learn from hobbies, interests, volunteering, part-time jobs and so on. The skills they gain from these are important for young people for life, and also for their future college, university and job applications. These skills are valued by employers and are […]

Cyber Security Careers in a Nutshell

NPFS are delighted to be launching their ‘Cyber Security Careers’ Nutshell, created in partnership with Skills Development Scotland. Our Nutshell is a starter for you to speak to your young person about options for future work. • Cyber security is one of the fastest growing industries in Scotland. • Average salary is £51,200 a year, […]

Creativity in a Nutshell

The latest nutshell guide from SDS and the National Parent Forum of Scotland looking at Creativity, Enterprise and Employability is now available. Creativity skills are crucial for young people to improve how they problem solve, have ideas or come up with a new approach to an old issue. Creativity is also one of the most […]

Apprenticeships in a Nutshell

Apprenticeships are a great way for young people to gain skills while working – ‘earning while learning’. They used to be mainly for traditional trades, but this is definitely no longer the case. Scottish apprenticeships are supported by the Scottish Government and respond to industry to fill skills gaps and create a closer link between education […]

Skills in a Nutshell

Curriculum for Excellence is designed to provide all children and young people with opportunities for developing: skills for learning skills for life skills for work There are various definitions of ‘skills’. Broadly, a skill might be usefully defined as an activity that a learner undertakes, can do again, can apply to different circumstances and can […]

Digital Skills in a Nutshell

Careers in Digital Technology’  explains why young people should consider a career in digital technology in Scotland.  It looks at what skills are needed and the wealth of opportunity the industry in Scotland offers.  The guide recognises the digital technology industry might be relatively unknown for many parents, and tackles common myths about working in […]

Career Education: A World of Possibilities

NPFS has developed a publication for parents which provides a helpful introduction to the new programme of career education starting in the 2015/16 school year. Career education will deliver key entitlements to all of our children and young people. These will ensure that Scotland’s children acquire the skills and knowledge they need so that they can reach the futures that […]

Career Conversations in a Nutshell

We know that talking to your child about their future career can be tricky. That’s why The National Parent Forum of Scotland has joined forces again with Skills Development Scotland to help parents and carers talk about career decisions with their children.