Bridging the Career Readiness Gap with SRAG Strategic Partner, Springpod
May 02, 2025Posted by:
We hosted another successful Lunch and Learn, this time in collaboration with our partners, Springpod. Attendees spent an hour gaining knowledge that will support them in their commitment to helping young people thrive in the workplace. Our Social Recruitment Advocacy Group Lunch and Learn events are held at least once a month - every month. They are attended by businesses from all sectors and are a great opportunity to find out what employers can do to support their social value impact goals.
What is the Readiness Gap?
The career "readiness gap" describes the disconnect between young people’s ambitions and their access to practical advice, role models, and structured pathways. It’s not just about skills - it’s about visibility, confidence, and opportunity.
"Three out of four young people are seriously thinking about their career by age 15, but many have no one to guide them.” - Springpod Research
Key Findings from Springpod’s National Survey
- 69% of students receive career advice just three times a year or less.
- 8.3% receive no guidance at all.
- Confidence is the single biggest driver of career success - but it's in short supply.
- Girls, young carers, and neurodivergent students report the highest levels of stress around careers.
Why This Matters to Employers
Schools are under pressure and can’t close the gap alone. Employer involvement is essential - not just in outreach but in shaping accessible, relatable experiences that make careers feel possible.
Springpod’s work has already delivered:
- 1.18 million learning hours
- 98 million in social value
- A 59% increase in job readiness
New Tools Making a Difference
Springpod demoed two innovations in development:
- Career Readiness Skills Library: Bite-sized modules on essential soft skills like emotional intelligence, communication, and leadership.
- AI-Powered Interview Simulator: Helps students practise real job interviews with personalised feedback based on their own experiences.
These tools are being co-designed with employers and students to ensure relevance and impact - and they're open to partnership.
Get Involved: What Employers Can Do
- Start earlier: Engage students before Year 11 (4th year in Scotland).
- Offer layered support: Combine inspiration, structure, and practical guidance.
- Measure outcomes: Track impact using tools like Social Return on Investment (SROI).
- Champion visibility: Share stories, offer role models, and make your workplace accessible.
Final Word
The issues reach far beyond school to impact workforce equity. As one participant said, “It’s not just a pipeline. It’s a platform - one that can lift young people over the barriers they shouldn’t face.”
Would you, or someone in your network, like to explore how collaborating with Springpod and the SRAG can support your social value impact goals with young people? Get in touch!
May 02, 2025Posted by:
