Posted on 17 July 2024
As we celebrate Youth Employment Week in the UK, which starts on 15 July 2024, it's a perfect time to reflect on the journeys of young professionals who have navigated the challenging yet rewarding path to finding their careers.
This week is dedicated to empowering the youth, offering them opportunities, and showcasing the importance of early work experiences. Today, we bring you an inspiring conversation with Kate Chappell, who shares her story of growth, learning, and finding her passion in teaching after an early start in the business world.
The Early Aspirations
Kate, when you look back to your 16-year-old self, what were your initial career goals and where did you see yourself heading?
At 16, my initial career goals were geared toward the business world. I wanted to be independent, live away from home, and ultimately go to university. This drove me to stay at school and complete my A-levels.
What inspired your initial career goal? Was it an interest, or did it come from family members or friends?
My inspiration came from my mother, who worked in Human Resources. I was always fascinated by her work. Thanks to her job, I had the opportunity to explore different business departments, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Additionally, studying GCSE Business Studies sparked my interest in pursuing a business career.
Academic pursuits
Tell us about what you chose to study at that time.
I chose to study Sport and Business Studies at A-level, which eventually led me to pursue a degree in Sport Business Management at Leeds Beckett University. This path was a perfect blend of my love for sports and interest in business.
Work experience at Active IQ
When you were 18, you had work experience with the marketing team at Active IQ. Can you tell us about your experience?
My work experience at Active IQ was fantastic. I felt extremely welcomed and the entire experience was well-organised. I got to delve into digital marketing, event planning, and more. It was a comprehensive introduction to the business world.
What key learnings did you take away from that experience?
The key takeaway was understanding how a business operates from a head office perspective. This hands-on experience complemented my university studies, bringing to life the academic theories I had learned.
How did that support your qualification at the time?
The practical exposure I gained at Active IQ directly supported my marketing studies at university. It gave me a real-world understanding of how a marketing department functions.
Transition to teaching
Tell us how you decided on the next step in your career journey.
I completed my final year of my Sport Business Management degree during the Covid pandemic, which felt incomplete. Seeking further growth, I discovered a PGCE Primary PE course. Although I was unsure at first, I believed it would equip me with valuable skills like communication, confidence, and organisation. I ended up loving it.
We are four years on from your work experience at Active IQ, and you are now a primary school teacher. Can you tell us more about how you transitioned into teaching and why you made that decision?
Initially apprehensive, my second placement in an inner-city school changed my perspective. I started enjoying teaching and saw it as a potential long-term career. I’m glad I made this decision as it aligns with my desire to make a meaningful impact.
You now have your own Year 3 class and are going into your second year of teaching in September. What do you enjoy most?
What I enjoy most is providing all children with equal opportunities for their future. Teaching in an inner-city state school with high levels of deprivation, I love being part of a team that removes barriers and offers endless possibilities to students, giving them the gift of choice.
Reflections and advice
Looking back at the change in your career direction, what lessons have you learned, and what advice would you give to others in a similar position?
I’ve learned the importance of resilience. There are many ups and downs when starting a career. My advice is to take risks and try new things, as you never know where they might lead you.
What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
I would tell my younger self to have more confidence in her abilities.
What advice would you give to other 16-year-olds during Youth Employment Week?
Embrace every opportunity and work hard. Let doors close because you chose to, not because someone else closed them for you.
This Youth Employment Week, let Kate's journey remind us of the importance of early work experiences, resilience, and the courage to explore new paths. Whether you're a young person starting your career or someone supporting them, this week is a valuable opportunity to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of professionals.