The “coolest” job for youngsters is being a soldier, the 8th Annual Career Survey of Thai Children conducted by Adecco Group found, while parents remain their biggest idols.

Most children said they dreamed of becoming teachers because they wanted to educate youngsters and teach them to be good people.

A career as a doctor was knocked into second place for the first time, followed by soldier, athlete and police officer.

Some children in the survey said they wanted to be farmers, having been inspired by the work and concepts of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. They also would like to serve as a soldier for the King.

When asked about the best/coolest job they could imagine, being a soldier came out on top, followed by police officer, doctor, footballer and teacher.

Asked the first three things they would do if they were the prime minister of Thailand, most said they would develop the country, help people in general and those in need, and reform Thailand’s education system. Many children said they would provide free education and medical treatment for everyone.

According to the survey, mathematics is the most popular subject at school, with physical education, Thai language, computer studies and English also among the most-liked subjects.

“The survey reflects the thoughts of children that they want to educate others and have strong commitment to teach others to be good people,” said Tidarat Kanchanawat, regional director Thailand and Vietnam, Adecco Group Thailand

“Therefore, both the public and private sector should work together to develop a better education system for our children, along with ethics, to ensure they grow up as intelligent and decent people.”