Government programme inspires thousands of Torbay's primary school children towards future careers

Thousands of primary school children from across Torbay are being encouraged to ‘Start Small Dream Big’ about their future careers, as part of a major new government programme. 

The new project will be rolled out across the region through the Devon, Plymouth and Torbay Careers Hub but is part of a £2.6 million nationwide programme designed to help children from disadvantaged backgrounds to think about careers and gain an understanding of the type of jobs available.

The scheme, which will run through to 2025, is backed by investment from the Department for Education and is being rolled out by The Careers & Enterprise Company (CEC).

Devon and Torbay are among four non-Education Investment Areas (EIAs) invited to take part in the latest round of the project, starting next month (March), although Plymouth Primary schools are already involved.

The programme seeks to link lessons to careers to get kids thinking about their futures. It will also provide opportunities for pupils to meet inspiring employers so they can explore different jobs and understand the skills they’ll need for the future.

While the initiative will be developed and delivered by teachers across Devon and Torbay, they will be given training by education charity Teach First. 

Primary school head teachers are being invited to attend a Start Small, Dream Big Launch webinar on either February 20 or 26, run by the Devon, Plymouth and Torbay Careers Hub.

Oli de Botton, CEO of The Careers & Enterprise Company, said: “Our primary school careers programme will help young people from disadvantaged communities explore the world of work in exciting and meaningful ways, raising aspirations and reducing barriers. 

“The programme aims to inspire primary school children by connecting them with role models, showing them how different subjects relate to jobs and encourage them to continue to dream big.”

Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Skills, said: “It’s good to see Primary School children being given this opportunity – it's giving them a taste of possible careers and how their learning at school can relate to skills and the world of work. 

“Being part of this national initiative is a great way for children to explore a range of jobs and nurture their ambitions.”