“Raising aspirations” refers to strategies and programmes designed to build an individual’s confidence, self-belief, and ambition for their future, particularly regarding education and careers. These initiatives aim to help people, especially young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, envision a wider range of possibilities for their lives and understand the steps needed to achieve them.
‘By aspirations we mean the things children and young people hope to achieve for themselves in the future. To meet their aspirations about careers, university, and further education, pupils often require good educational outcomes. Raising aspirations is therefore often believed to incentivise improved attainment.
Aspiration approaches are diverse and may focus on parents and families, teaching practice, out-of-school interventions or extra-curricular activities involving peers or mentors. When implementing aspiration interventions, schools might consider including:
• Guidance on the knowledge, skills, and characteristics required to achieve future goals.
• Activities to support pupils to develop self-esteem, motivation for learning or self-efficacy.
• Opportunities for pupils to encounter new experiences and settings.
• Additional academic support.’
(https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/education-evidence/teaching-learning-toolkit/aspiration-interventions )
Research suggests that most young people already have high aspirations; the challenge often lies in providing them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities required to achieve those ambitions. Simply raising aspirations in isolation, without an academic component or practical support, may not lead to improved attainment.
Key concepts:
• Aspiration vs. Attainment: Research suggests that most young people already have high aspirations; the challenge often lies in bridging the gap between aspirations and the knowledge/skills needed to achieve them. Interventions are most effective when they have a significant academic component alongside aspiration-raising activities.
• Focus on Process: Fostering a growth mindset and focusing on the process of learning, rather than just the outcomes, helps build resilience and self-efficacy, which are crucial for achieving long-term goals.
• Diverse Approaches: Effective methods often involve a combination of in-school programmes, parental/family engagement, mentoring, and out-of-school activities.
Strategies and activities:
• Career-related Learning: Embedding career education into the curriculum, even at the primary level, helps children understand the world of work and the skills required for different jobs.
• Mentorship and Role Models: Connecting students with mentors or older student ambassadors who can share their educational journeys and provide tailored advice is highly effective in inspiring them to aim higher.
• Skills Development: Focusing on developing essential skills like teamwork, oracy (speaking skills), resilience, confidence, and problem-solving helps prepare young people for future challenges.
• Parental Engagement: Working with parents and carers to emphasize the value of education and involve them in career-related activities ensures a supportive environment both at home and in school.
• Celebrating Success: Creating a positive school culture that celebrates all types of achievements and encourages a “second chance” mentality helps build confidence and a positive outlook.
Raising aspirations is about shifting from minimum expectations to striving for the best possible outcomes in personal growth and career, encouraging dreams beyond immediate circumstances.
This blog was written by Bretta Townend-Jowitt, Education Consultant and Trainer.
