Sexist careers advice is damaging the job prospects of girls
The movement found many of its members feared they had overlooked an interesting vocation because they were given outdated and unhelpful advice.
Sixty per cent were told about teaching and 43 per cent about childcare but only 29 per cent were informed of opportunities to work in IT, 28 per cent business, 21 per cent engineering, 9 per cent construction and 6 per cent plumbing.
The Guides who took part also complained that they received little or no information about potential salaries.
The findings reveal that while girls outperform boys at every level of the education system, they are hitting a glass ceiling when they reach the job market.
"This suggests modern careers advice continues to affirm old-fashioned gender stereotypes," said a Guiding spokesman.
One respondent reported receiving only 20 minutes of careers advice in seven years at secondary school. Another remarked: "I feel that I have been pushed by teachers and career advisers to pursue a traditional female line of work. The opportunity to discuss other options was never presented."
Chief guide Liz Burnley said: "These outdated gender barriers must be broken down so young women can determine their own successful career paths. Our young members are calling for better information, support and guidance about career options so they can make informed decisions about their futures."
The CBI warned recently that the economy is threatened by an acute shortage of scientists, engineers and mathematicians. It found a disproportionate number of girls were dropping science subjects.
