Targeted careers support

Vocational profiling

For some young people, particularly those with SEND, a more personalised and in-depth approach is needed to truly unlock their potential.

Vocational profiling is a powerful, person-centred tool that sits at the heart of targeted careers support, helping to bridge the gap between aspiration and meaningful employment.

Vocational profiling goes beyond standard careers conversations. It takes time to build a rich, holistic understanding of the young person, exploring:

their strengths, skills and interests

what motivates and engages them

their likes, dislikes and sensory preferences

the environments and conditions in which they thrive

their aspirations for adulthood, independence and employment

their strengths, skills and interests

what motivates and engages them

their likes, dislikes and sensory preferences

the environments and conditions in which they thrive

their aspirations for adulthood, independence and employment

Vocational profiling is already used successfully in a number of specialist settings, but there is significant value in expanding its use across a wider range of schools and post-16 providers.

Embedding this approach within targeted support strengthens transition planning and ensures that young people are prepared not just for education, but for meaningful, sustainable adult lives.

By investing in vocational profiling, education settings can take a significant step towards delivering truly personalised, ambitious and impactful Preparing for Adulthood pathways for every young person who needs it.