How to Run a Group Career Workshop, Step by Step

Group workshops let you reach many students at once. A good one is active, focused and short enough to hold attention. Use this step-by-step plan to run a 60-minute session. You can adapt it for different ages and topics.

Step 1: Choose a single aim

Decide what students should be able to do by the end. Keep it to one thing and write it as an action.

• Name three strengths and give an example for each.
• List three study or work routes linked to an interest.
• Write a first draft of a next-step plan.

If you need ready-made activities, our career activities for middle school students and activities for teenagers are good starting points.

Step 2: Plan the timeline

Here is a sample 60-minute structure.

• 0 to 5 minutes: welcome, aim, ground rules.
• 5 to 15 minutes: warm-up activity, such as a quick pair discussion about a job that surprised them.
• 15 to 40 minutes: main activity in pairs or small groups.
• 40 to 50 minutes: sharing and discussion.
• 50 to 60 minutes: each student writes one next step and one question.

Add a few spare minutes for slow starts and questions.

Step 3: Prepare the room and materials

Small preparation tasks save time on the day.

• Arrange seats so students can face each other in small groups.
• Print worksheets and have spare pens.
• Prepare a slide or board with the aim and timeline.
• Decide group sizes and who will lead each one.
• Check for any accessibility needs, such as reading support or seating.

Step 4: Run the session

Start with clear ground rules: listen, respect privacy, no judging. Explain the aim in simple words. Then let students do most of the talking.

• Give instructions once, clearly, and show an example.
• Use timers so tasks do not run over.
• Walk around and listen. Ask open questions: What made you choose that? What else could that lead to?
• Invite sharing but never force it. Some students prefer to write.
• Keep an eye on students who are quiet or upset, and follow up privately.

Step 5: Close and follow up

End by linking back to the aim. Ask students to write one action they will take in the next two weeks.

• Collect a quick exit slip: one thing learned, one thing still unclear.
• Note which students ask for an individual meeting.
• Record what worked and what to change.
• Check in on the actions in the next tutor or counselling session.

You can track outcomes by following our advice on tracking results in a school career programme. The Career Counsellor Toolkit includes 16 activities and a workbook you can use for sessions like this. If you want to practise facilitation skills, take a look at our counsellor training.

Want a ready-made plan for your school? Look at the Career Counsellor Toolkit or book a free 20-minute intro call with William.