You know your child best. These ideas help you support them through some of the biggest decisions of their lives, even if you did not have the same chances yourself.
Start the conversation early
- Ask, then listen. “What do you enjoy? What are you good at? What would you like to try?” works better than “What are you going to study?”
- Invite them to take our career quiz and talk about the results together.
- Be open to unfamiliar careers. Many good jobs did not exist when you were at school.
What to do in each year
- Grade 9: help your child choose subjects that keep options open. Mathematics and Physical Sciences, where possible, open the most doors.
- Grades 10 and 11: encourage steady marks and real-world experience. Look at shadowing and internships.
- Grade 12: help with applications, certified documents and deadlines. See our High School Hub.
Plan for the cost
- Visit the bursaries page early. Funding applications often close before final results come out.
- NSFAS may be available to households below an income limit. Check the current rules on the NSFAS website.
- Budget for the extras: accommodation, transport, food, data and books.
- Applying for NSFAS and genuine bursaries is free. Never pay anyone to “guarantee” funding.
Support, without taking over
The decision should belong to your child, with your guidance. Pressure towards a “safe” or prestigious career they do not want can lead to dropped courses and lost money. Encourage them to research and to have a plan B.
Watch their wellbeing
Exam years are stressful. Make space for rest, talk about worries, and seek help early from a school counsellor or doctor if they seem overwhelmed.
Help us help more learners
Do you work somewhere that could host a learner for a day of job shadowing? Get in touch.