FOR PARENTS
SUPPORTING PARENTS
Navigating the journey as a teenager - or as a parent of a teenager - is full of challenges and complexities, and unfortunately, there is no one roadmap or uniform set of instructions. However, AIB Future Sparks aims to provide a level of support that will guide skills development and preparedness along the way.
Underpinned by rich education resources, this programme provides resources and materials that develop life skills and support your child as they navigate major transitions and key life moments. At AIB, we believe that learning life skills now, will future-proof lives, careers, and our future economy, to the benefit of all. We see this as part of our brand purpose at AIB, which is to back people to achieve their dreams and ambitions. The online teacher and student hub contains extensive resources, with a strong skills focus that aims to support your child’s learning journey from their ‘ignition’ stage in the first year of post primary education right through to where they ‘change lanes’ into the world of third level education or training or work. Why not check out some of our Parent/Guardian supports like the Parent-Teen Communication resource and Teens Take Over episode with Louize Carroll on 'Communicating With Your Teen' through your child's school account.
Resources that connect the dots for learners between the skills embedded in the school curriculum and the skills for life beyond school and the world of work.
Financial Literacy for ‘think outside the box’ 21st century citizens.
Supports to complement your child’s whole school guidance experience.
CareersPortal partnership includes the AIB Careers Skills Competition and CareersPortal Assessment Tools.
Access to innovative and insightful AIB Future Sparks TV and supplementary learning materials on a range of topics.
Tip sheet for parents of first year students, written by Guidance Counsellors.
LIFE MOMENTS
How young people transition from one life moment to the next is important for reaching their potential and overall well-being. Skills are the consequence and the sustenance as they go from one life moment to the next. Some key life moments are:
Ignite
The journey begins here! As students move from primary school into post primary, new learning plus key skills practice and awareness begins.
In Gear
Getting ready! Students are growing up, learning to use their new skills and growing their confidence.
Observe, look left, look right, check your mirrors!
Time to reflect and evaluate! 3rd year is a time for noticing their skills and how they are developing. It’s also time to reflect and evaluate before making some serious choices for Senior Cycle up ahead.
Accelerate - Roundabout ahead!
The detour of a lifetime! Students challenge themselves to take on and develop new skills.
Drive
The open road! Here, students consolidate their skills and hone their awareness for future choices ahead.
Navigate/Steer - Motorway ahead!
Changing lanes - from byroads to motorways! Skills are now integrated for students, who make informed choices for the next stage of their journey.
AIB FUTURE SPARKS STUDENT HUB
Students can access resources including Future Sparks TV, podcasts, written resources and tools using a School Access Code once a teacher in their school has registered. Students are not required to share any information to gain access; all students in the school use the same access code. Speak to your child’s teacher about registering to gain access to the student and parent resources.