Abstract:

This study examines the support available for career decision-making among grade 12 learners in South African schools. Learner support is proposed to be an important concept that influences learner development concerns and career choices. Career decision-making is part of the process that an individual goes through to learn more about themselves and their future. However, this process necessitates proper support for learners in order for them to make an informed career choice. The future and prosperity of young people are at risk due to career challenges brought about by technology, globalisation, and changing work practices if adequate support is not provided. Young individuals entering the workforce must prepare for an environment that demands greater energy in creative tasks and critical thinking. These young people are also more likely to struggle with the concept of career paths based on job title progression, as they conceive in terms of a sequence of experiences and seek the responsibilities. This assistance can take the form of family support or school support. In a South African setting, the emphasis is on the importance of support in influencing career decisions, particularly among learners. The theoretical foundation for this study was the Krumboltz Social Learning Theory of Career Decision-making (SLTCD). The study employed purposive sampling techniques to select 18 Grade 12 learners from six schools in Gauteng, South Africa. The data gathered from semi-structured face-to-face interviews was examined using thematic analysis. The results provide insight into the range of resources and services provided by schools to assist learners in managing the challenges associated with making career decisions. The study also looks at the challenges and restrictions that come with using and gaining access to these support services. Furthermore, the results offer an understanding of the assistance given by parents. In the end, the study seeks to shed light on how to better support Grade 12 learners, thereby facilitating more informed and confident career decisions among South African youth.

Keywords:

Support available, Career, Decision-making, Grade 12 learners, Career paths.