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.
Bring Your Child to Work-Day
Employees of companies are invited to take their children to their workplace for a day. The “RealityCheck” approach to this is: Children increasingly do not know what their parents are “really doing”. A “take-away” to the work of father and mother can offer an authentic insight into a section of the real working world.
At the same time, this shared experience enables a family discourse on work and the world of work.
Training for skills
Try-on training activity at T2 Vocational College on Campus Skellefteå. Site visit and the opportunity to test various work steps within the industry. (Carpentry/wood and Welding) A career counsellor will work with a short guidance introduction/material focusing on what I want and what motivates me. Students will reflect on interests, wishes and values, expectations and goals for the future world of life and work. The exercise is both theoretical and practical to its approach.
The wheel of professions
The wheel of professions is a game aimed at improving young people’s knowledge of the labour market and of the numerous professions that exist in different working sectors. It is a group and learning-by-doing activity to increase awareness on professional possibilities and personal aspirations.
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.
Jobs out of the box - MINT Boxes
The “Jobs out of the Box – MINT Boxes” RealityCheck offers upper secondary students (15–19 years) the opportunity to experience typical professional activities from the fields of mathematics, informatics, natural sciences, and technology in a hands-on way. Companies provide authentic tasks from their daily work, which students solve in groups at classroom stations. The method follows the sequence practice – reflection – career orientation: after completing practical assignments, entrepreneurial personalities from the region share their professional experiences, enabling discussion and reflection. In line with the STEM strategy of Upper Styria East, the format creates a strong link between school-based learning, regional companies, and future career pathways, making labour market opportunities tangible.
Work experience Culture park
Try-on activity at Urkraft Culture park. Site visit and the opportunity to test various work steps within the wood/carpentry industry, mechanics and gardening/park. The Reality check is also an opportunity to reflect on interests, wishes and values, expectations and goals for the future world of life and work. The reality check mixes practical and theoretical information and experience.
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.