From Misinformation to Motivation: Why Generation Z is (or Isn’t) Choosing Teaching

This study explores the career motivations and aspirations of 16–18-year-olds in the UK. Using survey data from 756 participants, we examined how this age group view career options, and how teaching compares to other available sectors. Teaching was recognised as a fun, people-focused career, but was seen not valued for its job security, instead being seen as underpaid with a lack of autonomy. Across all careers, participants demonstrated a fixed mindset when considering their skills. Gender, ethnicity, and school type influenced career perceptions and aspirations, highlighting the need for targeted career guidance to address misconceptions and improve careers awareness.