Three quarters of parents are sceptical about their children’s chances of securing a creative job, according to a survey reported by Wales Online. The survey of 2,000 parents revealed that while 66 per cent like the idea of their children pursuing creative roles such as graphic design, game design, or broadcasting, a staggering 73 per cent worry that the pathways and opportunities into these industries appear too limited.
Almost two thirds of parents are concerned that success in the creative industry revolves around having ‘contacts’ as much as qualifications. The survey showed that 57 per cent believe having connections is crucial for career progression, with 84 per cent stating that ‘it’s not what you know, it’s who you know’ when it comes to working in the broadcast and TV industry.
Furthermore, almost a third of parents prioritise a ‘secure’ career path over following a passion in today’s job market. However, 86 per cent of parents expressed that they would feel more confident about their child pursuing a creative career if they had better knowledge of the available opportunities.
The research was commissioned by the Gatsby Charitable Foundation to shed light on T-levels, a two-year career-focused qualification for 16- to 19-year-olds equivalent to three A-levels, which includes a 45-day industry placement. Alesha Dixon, part of the ‘T-team’, highlighted the abundance of exciting opportunities in the creative industries for young people, emphasising the importance of establishing a network of contacts before turning 18.
Nearly half of the parents surveyed expressed a desire for more internships and work placements in creative fields, suggesting that these opportunities should be better promoted in society. Sara Davies, another member of the ‘T-team’, emphasised the need for fresh talent in the creative industries and highlighted the versatility and benefits of using creative skills across different sectors.
The concerns raised by parents regarding their children’s prospects in the creative industry reflect a broader issue of perceived barriers and challenges in pursuing careers in these fields. Through initiatives like T-levels and increased awareness of available opportunities, efforts are being made to support and encourage young individuals to explore and thrive in creative roles.