Work related learning and careers guidance are considered a very important part of each student’s education. They are delivered in various ways, ranging from activities within lessons, visiting speakers and external visits, to role plays and formal interviews. Our progressive programme permeates through the college and makes a significant contribution to preparing young people for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life ahead.

Much of the guidance takes place as part of the College’s tutorial programme. Students study a wide variety of topics, and learn vital skills to inform them in choosing the most appropriate further education to put them on their career path; skills that will also to help them accumulate the knowledge with which to make informed choices and decisions for the future. Help with the college and job application processes form an important part of this course. Themed training events and interview practice contribute to this activity-led programme.

Through a greater awareness of their own needs, interests and abilities, students will be able to make better life choices throughout their future career.

During the school year, all year groups are given the opportunity to participate in additional visits and information programmes which are designed to enhance their awareness and understanding of the ‘World of Work’.

Work Experience
There will be an opportunity for some of our Year 10 and/or Year 12 students to take part in a work experience programme for one week. This offers the students both an educational and social opportunity to gain a valuable insight into the ‘World of Work’. Work experience is an extremely beneficial and successful part of the programme.  It gives students the opportunity to put theory into practice, consider possible career options, develop their increasingly important employability skills and provides an overview of how companies are organised and how they operate.

Collapsed Sessions
The school holds a number of sessions during the year where the timetable is suspended and students follow a different and varied programme. Students experience a combination of activities designed to encourage them to develop their creative and innovative skills, in addition to enhancing their knowledge and awareness of the ‘World of Work’. Students in Year 10 onwards follow a more career-focussed programme to develop the knowledge, confidence and skills that they need to make well informed choices for the future and ensure a smooth progression onto their chosen pathways.

Ambitions Event
All students in Years 9 and 12 are given the opportunity to attend a major careers event held annually at the UWE Conference Centre. Over 50 employers/organisations are available to give information about their particular occupational area in interactive group sessions. Students find this extremely beneficial in making choices for progression into Key Stage 4 and Higher Education or alternative pathways after they leave the college.

All parents and students in Years 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13 are invited to an expanded evening session at this conference offering employer stands, seminars, and advice on further/higher education, careers and working life.

Mock Interviews



All students in Year 11 take part in a mock interview led by a representative from the local business community. The students receive valuable advice and feedback on both the quality of their completed application form and their performance during a formal interview.

Resource Centre
We have a new, dedicated Resource Centre providing a library and ICT access for careers opportunities. There are a variety of programmes available on the network and students are able to access up to date information electronically for use alongside printed resources to assist them with their future personal planning.

Guidance Appointments
In the ever changing world of careers, the students are able to access support on their career pathways through our drop-in sessions or individual interviews with our adviser.

Additional Careers Information
We are regularly sent information about careers events and apprentice opportunities, please see below a list of the latest details received:

DE & S Engineering Management Advanced Apprenticeship Scheme

KPMG School and College Leaver Programmes

Which University – A Level Explorer Tool

Careers Signposting for Parents & Carers

South West Skills Show poster

Employability & Skills Bulletin No.9

Employability and Skills Resources

For further information, please contact Mrs Lloyd