For parents, educators and the matriculants themselves, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth shift into the outside world. Here’s how to help matrics get ready for life after school.
Encourage goal setting and planning
Matrics need to think about their long-term goals and start planning how to achieve them. Whether the goal is to attend university, pursue a trade or take a gap year, it’s essential to have a roadmap in place. Encourage matriculants to set short-term and long-term goals that are realistic and align with their aspirations.
Creating a structured plan not only helps them focus on their priorities but also builds a sense of responsibility and motivation. A well-thought-out plan can act as a guide, keeping them on track and helping them stay resilient in the face of challenges.
Promote Financial Literacy
Financial literacy is an essential life skill that many young adults lack. Teach matrics the basics of budgeting, saving and managing debt, as these skills will serve them well regardless of their career paths. If they plan to study further, help them understand how student loans work and the importance of managing expenses while in tertiary education.
FundiConnect, for example, offers helpful resources and tools for students to understand financial planning and find funding for their education. Empowering matrics with financial literacy will equip them to make informed decisions and avoid the pitfalls of financial mismanagement.
Consider Different Pathways
University is not the only option after school, and it’s important for matriculants to know that. While higher education can be a great choice for many, others may benefit from entering the workforce, learning a trade, or enrolling in short courses to develop specific skills. Vocational training, apprenticeships and even internships can provide valuable experience and open doors to various career opportunities.
Encourage open discussions about different post-matric pathways, so that matriculants can make choices that suit their strengths, interests, and circumstances. Remind them that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to success.
Foster Soft Skills Development
Life after school requires more than just academic knowledge; it calls for a range of soft skills that will help young adults thrive in various environments. Communication, problem-solving, adaptability and teamwork are just a few of the skills that employers look for in graduates and job seekers.
Help matrics develop these skills by encouraging participation in extracurricular activities, community service or even part-time work. Such experiences can teach valuable lessons that cannot be found in textbooks and can significantly enhance their employability.
Guide Them on How to Cope with Change
The transition from school to the wider world can be overwhelming. Matrics may experience a apprehension as they navigate new responsibilities, environments and expectations. It’s important to prepare them for the emotional and psychological aspects of this change.
Encourage a healthy balance of work and leisure, as well as regular physical activity, to reduce stress and promote well-being. Offering emotional support and providing information about mental health resources can also make a big difference. Let matrics know that it's normal to feel uncertain at times, and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Empower Them with Information
Knowledge is power, and providing matrics with the right information can help them make informed decisions about their futures. Give them access to resources on career options, study programmes, funding opportunities and gap year activities.
Leverage Technology for Learning
Encourage matriculants to explore online platforms for self-learning and skills development. With digital tools and courses readily available, there’s no reason for learning to stop after high school. Self-paced courses, webinars and podcasts can be great ways for matrics to continue their education and prepare for their future careers.
For more study, career and funding advice, visit www.fundiconnect.co.za or email [email protected].
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