At St Patrick’s RC High School, our mission is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching. We believe every child is created in the image of God, with unique potential and purpose. Through our careers education, we encourage pupils to recognise their dignity and to consider how they can contribute positively to their community and the wider world, showing compassion, stewardship, and a commitment to the common good in their future work.

Opportunities in Salford and Greater Manchester

We are fortunate to be part of one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing regions in the North of England, offering a wide variety of pathways for our pupils.

Key Sectors and Local Employers:

  • Digital, Media and Creative Industries – MediaCityUK in Salford is home to BBC, ITV, dock10, and many independent production and design companies.
  • Health and Social Care – Employers such as the NHS, BUPA, and Salford Royal Hospital offer a wide range of roles, from healthcare to management.
  • Finance, Business and Professional Services – Large organisations including AJ Bell, Barclays, KPMG, PwC, and The Co-operative Group have major offices in Manchester.
  • Science, Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing – Innovative companies such as Siemens, Arup, and Mott MacDonald provide opportunities in sustainable and future-focused industries.
  • Technology and Telecommunications – Firms like TalkTalk, Cisco, and CGI continue to expand Manchester’s tech hub.
  • Education and Research – The University of Salford and The University of Manchester provide many opportunities for graduates and professionals in education and research.

Local Labour Market Information

Salford:

  • Around 72% of working-age adults are employed.
  • About 52% of workers are in professional or skilled occupations.
  • Half of residents hold a qualification at degree level or above, showing how education opens doors to greater opportunities.

Manchester (City and Greater Manchester):

  • Around 56% of people in work are in professional, managerial, or associate professional roles.
  • 34.9% of jobs are classed as professional occupations.
  • 22% of employees work in business, finance, or professional services, higher than both regional and national averages.
  • 16% work in wholesale and retail, and 13% in health and social care.
  • Around 46% of residents hold a qualification at degree level or higher.

These figures show that our local area offers a diverse and thriving labour market, with strong demand for well-qualified, adaptable young people who are ready to contribute meaningfully to society.

The below booklet consists of key growth sectors in Salford, shared to us by Salford City Council.

A Catholic Approach to Careers

Our careers education is not only about helping pupils to secure employment – it is about helping them to discern their vocation. In line with our Catholic mission, we want each young person to understand that their future work is a way of serving God and others. Through the values of Dignity of Work, Solidarity, and the Common Good, we teach pupils that their skills, knowledge, and ambitions can make a real difference in the world – whether through caring for others, protecting creation, or leading with integrity and compassion.

How Parents Can Support Career Learning

You play a vital role in guiding your child’s aspirations. Here are a few simple ways you can help:

  • Talk about what subjects and activities your child enjoys and how these could connect to future careers or ways of serving others.
  • Explore local employers and ask your child what kind of work interests them.
  • Discuss how values such as kindness, responsibility, and service matter in every profession.
  • Encourage your child to think about their future in terms of both success and purpose – not just what they want to do, but who they want to be.

Useful Links for supporting your child’s careers education at home.

At St Patrick’s RC High School, we are committed to nurturing pupils who are not only confident learners but also compassionate and reflective young people, ready to use their gifts to build a better world. Through our Catholic ethos and high-quality careers education, we aim to prepare every child to fulfil their God-given potential and contribute to society with hope, integrity, and love.