My Career Story Starts HereSelf-awareness and identity
Why this matters
Year 7 students arrive with hopes, hobbies, family stories and half-formed ideas about work. This module gives them language for who they already are - strengths, interests, values - and plants the seed that careers learning is about them, not just jobs.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson
I can describe at least three of my strengths using examples
I can name people, places and experiences that have shaped what I care about
I can explain why self-knowledge matters for future decisions
ActivityActivity 1: Strengths in real life
On your own20 min
Students complete a printed strengths card - three strengths with one specific moment each (a goal scored, a friend supported, a problem solved). Pair-share, then post strengths to the class wall.
ActivityActivity 2: People who shaped me
On your own20 min
Sketch a simple 'shapers' map - five people, places or experiences that influenced who you are today. Share one with a partner.
ActivityActivity 3: Future-self letter
On your own15 min
Write a 5-minute letter to yourself in Year 11. What do you hope is true about you? Sealed and stored - re-read in Year 11 transition.
Success criteria
How we'll know it worked
Completed strengths card with three real examples
Drawn a simple 'people who shaped me' map
Chapter Student Game
Action
Open the Self district and complete your first Aim & Learn round
Skills: Listening, Speaking
Write a short post about three things you're already good at and one person who's helped shape you. Add it to your timeline.
What's next
Set a warm tone - this is about belonging before it's about jobs. Encourage doodling, family stories, personal artefacts. Avoid 'what do you want to be?' framing in week one.