As part of the SupportSphere initiative, an Erasmus+ project aimed at helping young people who are Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEETs), a focus group was held with Vocational Education and Training (VET) students this past February in Athens, Greece. The discussion was based on a questionnaire designed to understand students’ experiences, challenges, and expectations when it comes to building their careers.
Many students shared that they feel uncertain and anxious when making career decisions. They often struggle with too many choices, pressure from family or society, and self-doubt, which can make it hard to take the next step toward employment. Another key challenge identified was the lack of networking opportunities and the complexity of the job search process, both of which reduce students’ confidence. While some felt somewhat prepared in terms of technical skills, many said they needed more support developing soft skills—especially in communication, networking, negotiation, and self-promotion.
Participants emphasized the value of learning practical career skills, such as:
- Preparing for job interviews and promoting themselves effectively
- Staying informed about industry trends
- Developing leadership and problem-solving skills
- Joining job shadowing or career transition programs
- Attending skill-building workshops
Students also said they would like to see more personalized guidance from their trainers. They appreciate technical support, like CV reviews and workshops, but want hands-on coaching in areas such as mock interviews, salary negotiations, and mentorship programs. They’re also interested in exploring digital career tools, including AI-based career matching systems and job simulation platforms.
Based on these insights, the SupportSphere team recommends that VET trainers:
- Offer individualized career guidance tailored to each student’s goals.
- Stay updated on labour market trends and industry changes.
- Build stronger connections with employers and professionals through Q&A sessions and mentoring.
- Integrate mental health support and real-world projects into their programs.
These findings highlight the urgent need for a holistic, student-centered approach to career guidance in VET education. By supporting trainers and giving them the right tools and methods, SupportSphere aims to help young people transition confidently from education to employment — and reduce the risk of them becoming NEET.
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