Sharon Kennedy

My sessions are designed to help young people build confidence, clarity, and practical readiness for the world of work, using the NorthSTAR Career Compass as a clear and supportive framework within the Career Confidence Collective online community.

Lessons combine structured group sessions with optional (chargeable) 1:1 support. In group sessions, students work through key early-career topics together — such as understanding strengths and interests, exploring GCSE and post-school options, building confidence, and preparing for first jobs or apprenticeships. Group work is interactive and discussion-based, helping students learn from each other, normalise uncertainty, and build confidence through shared experience.

Alongside this, 1:1 sessions provide more personalised support. These are used to explore individual goals, concerns, and decisions in more depth — whether that’s choosing subjects, preparing applications, writing CVs, practising interviews, or adjusting to a first role. This balance allows students to benefit from community learning while still receiving tailored guidance.

Each lesson follows a clear, supportive format: a short check-in, guided activities or discussion based on the NorthSTAR Career Compass, practical exercises, and clear next steps. Sessions are designed to be engaging and accessible, with a strong focus on real-world skills, reflection, and confidence-building rather than pressure or “having it all figured out”.

The online community is an important part of the experience. It provides a safe, encouraging space where students can ask questions, share progress, and see that they’re not alone in feeling uncertain or unsure. This sense of belonging helps build confidence and motivation between sessions, not just during them.

My approach is calm, encouraging, and structured. I help students understand themselves better, make sense of their options and feel more prepared to take their first steps into the world of work. The focus is not on having a perfect plan, but on developing clarity, confidence, and the skills to make thoughtful decisions as opportunities arise.