Jobs out of the box – MINI MINT
MINI-MINT is a hands-on RealityCheck format for primary schools (ages 6–10). Simple experiments in mathematics, science, and technology are combined with authentic examples from companies. Children explore phenomena, conduct small experiments, and learn directly from company representatives why mathematics and science are relevant in everyday professional life. This playful and low-threshold approach helps to answer the question “Why do I learn this?” at an early age.
In line with the regional STEM strategy of Upper Styria East, an additional box was developed and tested within the RealityCheck. Unlike traditional sector-based approaches, this box allows pupils to experience professions across the fields of STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics – in a practical and interdisciplinary way.
The implementation takes place within school lessons as part of the cross-curricular subject “Education, Career and Life Orientation” and therefore belongs both to the formal curriculum and the non-formal learning context.
CareerCraft: Shape your future
The practical workshop "CareerCraft: Shape your professional future" offers pupils from year eight onwards a hands-on opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of skilled trades. Realistic scenarios and interactive role-playing games give them an insight into the diverse possibilities of skilled trades. The aim is to awaken and promote talent and interest in these essential professions and to provide pupils with the tools for their professional future.
Job-Action
Regular career fair visits are made more sustainable and focussed through an action bundle prepared in advance. The students are given tasks for which they can collect points and, in this way, come into more comprehensive contact and dialogue with companies. The results can also be retrieved for follow-up and analysed together.
What happens in a company? Touch it with your own hands!
This Reality Check consists of a hands-on workshop held by a company within the school context, as a curricular or extra-curricular activity. The special feature of this experience is that companies not only come into the school, but also bring in equipment or materials actually used in the workplace and make them available to the students, so that they can experience first-hand what goes on in a local company.
Internships with purpose
In the 8th grade, the young people are extensively prepared for the upcoming work placement (internship) in the 9th grade. The "TalentCheck", a career choice test and a detailed counseling interview with the parents, are used to work out together where and in which area the young people could complete their work placement in the 9th grade. The careers counsellor names possible employers and sectors and discusses the relevant application procedure with the young people.
Film contest!
Contest! Organizing an activity where classes create short films about different professions can be both educational and fun for students. Have your class compete in making a short film about what it's like to work in a chosen profession. Write a short script, film with your mobile phone in order to showcase a specific profession.