In this session, Dr Zoe Baker (University of Sheffield) shared insights into care experienced graduates’ transitions out of higher education and into graduate employment. Drawing on findings from the Care Experienced Graduates Project (2021-2024), Zoe presented the unique challenges that those with care backgrounds face when accessing and progressing through their first graduate jobs. Zoe explained how employer perceptions of the ‘ideal graduate’ can further constrain opportunities for access to employment, and career progression. The session concluded with research-based recommendations for employers and higher education institutions to address these issues and enhance the transformative potential of higher education for care-experienced people.
Guest Speaker
Dr Zoe Baker is a Lecturer in Education specialising in issues of inequality and social justice in higher education. Her latest research explores inequalities in higher education access, progression, and outcomes for care experienced people. In addition to her research and teaching activities, Zoe volunteers as an Independent Visitor for children and young people in care with Sheffield City Council’s children's social care services.
