Parents worry about their children’s future. Thanks to the proliferation of technologies such as AI and automation, it’s understandable; if robots can do almost any job, what type of careers will be left for our children? The future of work seems bleak. But those who sit in the two camps; they work in tech, but also have kids, are a little more optimistic.

At least,  a new report from techUK, Preparing for change: How tech parents view education and the future of work, found that parents working for tech companies are optimistic about the future job market, but they do hold reservations about whether children are being prepared properly.

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However, although the report found that parents working in the tech sector are confident about their children’s future job prospects, they do think a reboot on skills is needed to ensure opportunities in tech can be grasped.

Parents argued, in order to achieve future opportunities, the educational landscape will need to evolve – 65% of parents surveyed believe that a stronger focus on soft skills is needed.

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Over one hundred parents currently working in tech contributed to the report which was published on January 4th.  Vinous Ali, head of policy at techUK, was due to make an appearance in front of the House of Commons Education Committee inquiry into the fourth industrial revolution, a few days later.  Ali stated that this is a chance to explain how the UK’s education system needs to change so that it can meet the emerging opportunities

“As a leader in tech innovation, the UK is well placed to take advantage of new technology,” said techUK’s CEO Julian David. Tech parents are confident that their children will have good opportunities for interesting and rewarding work as the economy becomes ever more digital. But they are also very clear that having the right skills will be key. Education policy and lifelong learning provision needs to meet the needs of a fast-moving, fast-changing labour market that ensures opportunities for all.”

He added: “We need greater focus on relevant education and skills for both our young people and workers who need to reskill throughout their lives. Adapting the curriculum to ensure young people today are equipped for the jobs of tomorrow is absolutely vital.

“We need a more balanced approach to the curriculum that supports knowledge-based learning whilst also nurturing skills such as critical thinking and teamwork. Creativity will be a key differentiator in a knowledge economy and these subjects must be properly supported. Policymakers also need to be radical in their approach to adult education and work with industry to ensure that future workforces are encouraged and supported to retrain and upskill.”

The full report can be found here.

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