Posted 24 June 2025

After attending a Go Higher Industry Insight event, statistical analysis shows that secondary school learners have a significantly better understanding of the industries in focus, as well as feeling significantly better informed about their higher education (HE) options. At the same time, employers who support the programme report that these events showcase the benefit of increasing diversity within their industry and provide them with an opportunity to learn from and break down barriers with the next generation of employees.

The Go Higher Industry Insight programme is a series of sector-specific interactive events, aiming to provide learners aged 11-18 with high quality, meaningful experiences of industry, careers, relevant employers and HE opportunities. Our evidence of impact in 2023-24 is in line with previous analysis showing emerging impact of this approach in 2022-23. It also supports growing evidence that experiential careers education which fosters connection between school pupils and employers is helping to:

• Close skills gaps[1] (Careers and Enterprise Company)
• Contribute to economic and social outcomes for young people[2] (Education Endowment Foundation)
• Shape learners’ future aspirations and motivations in school[3] (Education and Employers)

The mission to achieve these important outcomes is shared within local economic areas. Collaboration is therefore fundamental to delivering experiential, industry focused careers education which meet local skills needs and support social mobility. The strategic nature of Go Higher Industry Insight events provides a unique opportunity for higher education providers, employers, schools and colleges to collaborate to meet the needs of the local economy and learners experiencing inequality.

Our findings show that, as well as boosting learners’ knowledge and understanding of industries and HE, Go Higher Industry Insight events are also associated with a positive impact on learners’ sense of belonging in HE. Qualitative insights suggest that the combination of experiencing HE contexts and engagement with employers is a powerful mix. Indeed, a sense of belonging developed through this lens is perhaps the most sustainable way to ensure young people experiencing inequality feel they belong well beyond HE, and into their chosen industry and career.

 

Access the one-page summary, full report and registration for an online briefing session HERE.

[1] Careers and Enterprise Company. 2023. From outreach to intake Employer Standards for Careers Education.

[2] Education Endowment Foundation. 2016. Careers education: international literature review

[3] Education and Employers. 2018. Drawing the Future: Exploring the career aspirations of primary school children from around the world