The Winston Churchill School Careers Advice & Guidance
It is important that all students are fully supported and guided through the process of planning their futures. With a careers professional and a programme of education, information, advice and guidance for all students from Years 7 -11 we believe our students are well prepared for their futures. All staff at The Winston Churchill School play an active role in preparing students for the world of work. We have a full programme of careers education that is delivered through PSHCE, special events such as the annual careers fair, career workshops and presentations, visits, trips and assemblies and also within individual departments and through tutor time.
All students:
- Develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their abilities and affinities
- Gain a greater knowledge of the range of opportunities open to them
- Take part in work related activities in and out of school
- Develop their understanding of the labour market and the requirements and expectations of employers
- Learn to make decisions wisely about their future
- Are prepared to manage change and be fully supported through key transition periods
- Learn how to improve their own employability: how to find work, how to get work and how to progress their careers
Year 7
Next Step
Students are supported in their transition from primary school into secondary school and through our Winston Competencies begin to learn more about themselves. During the year they complete a self-assessment and target the skills they want to focus on. The Learning Review Evenings encourage parents to be part of this process and this continues throughout their time at Winston.
Students register with U explore and begin their online journey of careers support which again, continues throughout their time at school.
Year 8
Exploring Work
During PSHCE lessons, tutor time and Winston Extra, students explore the world of work, gaining a greater understanding of employers’ expectations, employability skills and the labour market.
Year 9
Preparation for GCSE Options
Students are given several lessons during tutor time to prepare them for the decisions they need to make in February of Year 9. They learn more about how to make decisions wisely, understand more about the range and structure of their choices and are supported in this by 1:1 careers appointments. In addition to U explore, they work on Fast Tomato, which enables them to explore jobs/career pathways which require their strengths and skills.
Year 10
Make it Work
Experiencing the world of work and employers’ expectations is vital in moving towards employability. During Year 10 all students take part in a 5 day work related learning experience, working with employers from a range of sectors. The focus is very much on developing their employability skills. They are fully prepared for this with a series of preparation sessions during Winston Extra and tutor time, focusing on teamwork, communication and problem solving skills.
An important part of this process is for students to find their own work experience placement – this gives them a valuable insight into the process of contacting employers using speculative letters and telephone calls and by submitting their CVs. Students complete a reflective journal which becomes a valuable resource when completing their personal statement or application for apprenticeships/school leaver programmes at the end of year 11.
Year 11
Preparation for Progression
Students undergo a programme of education, information and guidance to help them make the vital decisions about their future. Over a series of tutor sessions and using U explore, students learn how to write an effective CV and develop the skills required for successful interview. Our programme of study teaches them about effective decision making, explores their options and gives support in making their applications. It covers the full range of routes into their future including sixth form, FE College, apprenticeships and school leaver programmes. This is supported by 1:1 careers interviews. All students attend the careers fair with exhibitors from our local colleges, universities and employers. This gives students an opportunity to discuss future courses and career pathways.