Careers
The programme of Careers Education in the school is contained within the framework of PSHCE (Personal,Social Health and Citizenship Education).
Year 7 and 8
Students are introduced to the world of work, jobs and job families using "Investors in Pupils". They look at which skills and qualities are needed for various jobs. They analyse their own strengths and weaknesses and study recent labour market changes and trends.Year 9
The chief elements include the provision of information for pupils heading for Option Choice for KS4 and an introduction is made to the Careers Library organised by the school careers teacher. After Christmas a comprehensive booklet is issued to all parents of Year 9 pupils. This gives details of all the subjects offered and explain the area of choice. This is followed by a Year 9 options evening to discuss the procedure for option choice and to give pupils and parents details of courses available. Individual interviews with every child and his/her parents are held at time to suit parents. Students continue to look at their strengths and weaknesses and identify their own skills in teamwork, and then prepare students for work. Students research occupational areas of interest using the Careers Library and IT databases. Students also take part in the "Real Game" project which involves creating and sustaining a dream lifestyle using transition and budgeting skills.
Years 10 and 11
The Year 10 curriculum looks at job descriptions, skills and qualities. The Year 11 curriculum is aimed at developing students abilities and confidence towards making the right decisions for themselves. Information evenings and personal interviews similar to those in Year 9 are also held to discuss possible Post-16 options and parents are welcome to attend. Considerable information is available in the Careers Library including access to Further and Higher Education opportunities as well as information for people who wish to start work at 16. All sources of information are available outside of teaching time for any pupils seeking information or wishing to research particular areas.
Year 10 focuses on researching occupational areas of interest and applying for work experience. Students are prepared for work experience in topics such as Health and Safety and interview skills. Work Experience takes place for a week in the Spring Term.
Year 11 focuses on post-16 options, balancing work and life, financial and transition skills.
Sixth Form
Similar arrangements are made in Sixth Form organised by Sixth Form Staff. Detailed guidance is given for Higher Education entry. This includes visits to University Open days, talks from guest speakers, and an annual Higher Education Evening for parents and students giving details of all aspects of courses, grants, loans etc. Sixth Form students follow a special PSHCE programme accredited by the Open College Network giving them UCAS points for local universities.
Higher Education
In addition to the PSHCE programme at KS4 students also have the opportunity to take part in University visits. In 2008 over 60 of our Year 10 and Year 11 students spent two days at Leeds Metropolitan University learning about the range of opportunities available. Students stayed in a Hall of Residence and experienced lectures or workshops focusing on - Study Skills, applying to University, Stress/Time Management as well as special 'taster lessons'.