It is hearthwarming to know that the future of Australia is in good hands as children aspire to professional careers that help others. This is what 1000 five to twelve year old boys and girls have said, when they were asked What you would most like to be when you grow up?
1. Teacher (16 per cent)
2. Scientist (13 per cent)
3. Vet (13 per cent)
4. Actor (11 per cent)
5. Musician (11 per cent)
6. Doctor (10 per cent)
7. Police Officer (10 per cent)
8. Athlete (8 per cent)
9. Fire Fighter (6 per cent)
10. Pilot (6 per cent)
Summary:
- Children aspire to professional careers that help others over seeking fame and fortune
- Just three percent of children aspire to become Prime Minister
- Kids look up to their teachers and parents (both 15 per cent) as role models rather than celebrities (6 per cent) and only one 13 per cent children having the desire to be famous
- When asked what they would most like about a job, only 16 per cent of children surveyed wanted one that made them rich. The most common motivation for a child’s dream job was to be happy (41 per cent) followed by having the opportunity to help others (39 per cent). However, one in four children expect to earn $1 million per year
Salary:
- One in four children expect to earn $1 million per year
- Boys are more likely to believe they’ll earn $1 billion a year when they grow up
Other key findings:
- Kids that aspire to be a doctor or lawyer are more likely to want to be their own boss
- Only three per cent of children want to be Prime Minister
- Ninety-four per cent believe school is important if they want a good job
ABOUT THE RESEARCH
The research has been released to coincide with the Woolworths Earn & Learn program where schools and their local community can collect stickers at Woolworths stores and earn points in exchange for educational equipment. Previously, the program has provided 60,000 books and science items and more than 17,000 pieces of sporting equipment to over three million students nationally.