New market research1 released today reveals that almost four fifths (79%) of parents of working adults surveyed in East Anglia are so proud of their child’s career achievements, they’re conscious it can be seen as “boasting” or “bragging” when telling others about them2.
Nearly two in five (39%) parents in East Anglia who let other people know about their child’s achievements love telling their grown-up children how proud they are of them – even if they find it annoying or embarrassing. When asked what makes them most proud, over half (55%) said it’s the person they have grown up to become.
The national survey of over 2,000 parents of working adults, aged 18 and over in England, was carried out for Get Into Teaching – the national campaign aimed at encouraging people to consider teaching as a career. It explores the sense of pride parents derive from their children’s current job or career, and how they would feel if their child was in a role with a greater sense of purpose.
When thinking about alternative career options, almost two thirds (64%) of parents in East Anglia said they would feel even more proud if their child was working in a role considered to be “giving something back to society” 3, such as healthcare or education. And when asked about teaching as a career, more than nine in 10 (91%) said if their child were to pursue a career in the classroom, they would feel proud telling others about it4, with 83% believing that their child would make a good teacher5.
Coinciding with today’s new findings, the Get Into Teaching campaign has released a new online video featuring clips from interviews with members of the public. The short film captures the pride and kudos parents get from their child’s career achievements, particularly those who are parents of teachers.
Roger Pope, spokesperson for the Get Into Teaching campaign and a National Leader of Education, said: “Our research highlights how much pride parents up and down the country feel about their children’s achievements when it comes to work, and they’re not shy about telling others about it! Yet it’s also interesting to hear how they would feel even more proud if their child was working in a role considered to be giving something back – and how many believe their child would make a good teacher.
“At a time when many final year university students and recent graduates are exploring their future career options, I would encourage anyone interested in a career that allows you to make your mark on the world to consider teaching. Teaching is exciting and dynamic – and one that will make you proud too.”
As a teacher you can help create a society where everyone, wherever they live, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, education or age has the opportunity to succeed.
Tax-free bursaries of up to £27,000 to train as a teacher are available in selected subjects, and as a newly qualified teacher you’ll start on a minimum salary of £28,000 to £34,000, depending on location.
For anyone interested in teaching as a career, the Get Into Teaching service has experienced teacher training advisers available to give free support and advice. To find out more visit: https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk or call the Get Into Teaching line on 0800 389 2500.
