BBC Bitesize offers solution to teens’ AI career fears

Teenagers are uncertain

The research with more than 4,500 young people aged 13-16, also indicates that career ambitions remain largely traditional. In the list of the top 10 jobs teenagers want when they’re older, doctor continues to top the list. Engineer and teacher follows, with roles such as vet, police officer and lawyer also ranking highly. The NHS came out top of the list of organisations young people would most like to work for, ahead of both Google and Apple.

While aspirations remain service-focused, many young people are unsure how emerging technologies could support, rather than hinder, these careers.

BBC Bitesize responds to concerns

Cerys Griffiths, head of BBC Bitesize said:

“It’s clear that young people are curious about AI, but they also have serious concerns about how it could affect their futures. Our research shows that many are unsure how this technology fits into the careers they aspire to, or how to use it to their own advantage as they step into the world of work.

“BBC Bitesize’s role is to cut through the hype and fear and give young people the confidence to understand how AI works, where it’s already being used in real jobs, and how it can support their learning and career choices alongside core human skills.” 

In response, BBC Bitesize has expanded its Guide to AI. This is a free, digital-first learning resource designed to help 14-19-year-olds understand how AI works. It also explains how AI is already being used in real jobs, in industries such as health, fashion, gaming, sport and conservation. It aims to help young people see how AI tools can complement core skills such as creativity, problem-solving and human judgement. The guide also advises young people how to use AI safely, responsibly and critically.

New AI careers content

The BBC Bitesize Careers website will launch new AI-themed content during National Careers Week, including Job Detective. This is a video feature presented by Emma-Louise Amanshia. She will explore how AI is being used in real careers, starting with medicine.

BBC Bitesize will feature a special Bitesize Careers Talk with entrepreneur Sara Davies. This will explore how she built her career, her perspective on AI’s impact on jobs, and the advice she would give her 16-year-old self. 

As part of this offering, BBC Bitesize is working with the Science Museum on a live Guide to AI Careers event. It is set to take place on Tuesday 3rd March, during National Careers Week.  

The hands-on event will bring 14-18-year-olds face-to-face with professionals already using AI in their jobs. The aim is to give young people the opportunity to try AI tools for themselves. They can ask questions about how technology is shaping different industries. 

The event will feature a series of interactive demo spaces hosted by organisations already using AI in the workplace. This includes Microsoft, ASOS, Imperial College London and the University of St Andrews.  

Nick Eley, head of digital creation at ASOS, added:

“AI is changing how we design and create, but it doesn’t replace the fundamentals. Young people still need strong creative and technical skills, AI simply expands what’s possible when those skills are in place.”

“I hope that by working with Bitesize, we can show how AI allows young people to expand their creativity and think bigger about what is possible when designing and succeeding in their chosen field.” 

BBC Bitesize will publish new careers and AI content throughout National Careers Week. It will also offer classroom resources to support teachers and parents in helping young people navigate a rapidly changing world of work. 

For more information please contact Hollie.tanker.ext@bbc.co.uk or visit https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize.