Speaking: The Future of Work

I'd be inclined to say employees benefit most, because they may well gain several hours a week by avoiding the commute. I say that with a few reservations, though. Being able to work from anywhere sounds great, but some people miss having colleagues nearby. Employers are likely to save on office costs too, and they can recruit people from different places. The challenge is helping everyone keep in touch without filling the day with video calls. So, to a certain extent, I'd say flexible arrangements can work for both sides, provided there's a clear agreement about availability and enough support for people who feel isolated.

I think offices will still exist, although their role may change considerably. Routine individual work could increasingly happen at home, while offices become places for training, practical work and collaboration. For example, a design team might meet twice a week to test ideas together. That said, not every employee has a quiet workspace or reliable internet at home. Employers may therefore need to offer a choice. I would expect smaller, more flexible offices rather than their complete disappearance, especially in industries where people need specialist equipment or regular face-to-face support.

To a certain extent, job security matters more because a dependable income makes it easier to plan for housing and family responsibilities. A high salary offers little comfort if the position could disappear next month. However, priorities vary. Someone early in their career might accept a less secure role in return for valuable experience and better pay. I would also distinguish security from staying in the same job forever. Transferable skills and reasonable savings can provide protection when employers or industries change, so the best choice depends partly on a person's circumstances.

Schools cannot predict every future occupation, but they can help students learn how to adapt. I would prioritise critical thinking, collaboration and the ability to check information. For example, students could investigate a local problem, compare sources and present several possible solutions. Digital skills are also useful, although teaching one current application is not enough. Learners need to understand how to approach unfamiliar tools. While subject knowledge remains essential, giving students opportunities to revise their ideas after feedback could prepare them for changing expectations and help them become more independent learners.