It is widely recognised that parents and carers are one of the most powerful influences on a young person’s career and education decision-making. However, it can be difficult to fully understand the variety of pathways which lead to different occupations, and you may not feel fully informed about all education routes and the reality of modern-day jobs and industries.

The landscape of technical education is also undergoing significant change, including the introduction of T-levels. So, as well as ensuring that young people have access to high quality career guidance, we recognise that parents also need up to date information on the different pathways and career options available.

When your child finishes Year 11, there are several different routes they can choose. This period of their education is called “Post-16”. The route they take depends mostly upon their future career or job aspirations but the most common routes taken are:

• Study full-time on an academic or vocational course
• Start an apprenticeship
• Work or volunteer full-time with part-time study or training

 

Please note: Young people in England are required by law to stay in education or training until aged 18. This is called the Raising Participation Age.

If your child stays on to do A Levels at Springwood Sixth Form or goes elsewhere, there are several different routes they can choose to pursue at the end of Year 13 or “Post-18”. The most common routes taken are:

• Going to University (Higher Education)
• Start an apprenticeship (higher or degree level)
• Taking a 'Gap Year' (volunteering, travelling or finding a temporary job)

Talking Futures is a website for parents designed to help you start conversations about future education and career goals with your child.

Parents and carers will also have the opportunity to engage in careers activities in school at key decision making points:

Year 9 ‘Guided Choices’ Parents Evening - making informed decisions about GCSE choices

Year 11 ‘Help you Choose’ Parents Evening - making informed choices about post 16 destinations

Year 12 ‘Welcome to Sixth Form’ Parents Evening - CEIAG programme for Sixth Formers

Year 13 ‘Post 18’ Parents Evenings - finding out more about UCAS or apprenticeship applications

Parents are also welcome to attend our annual Futures Careers Fair which takes place in October.

Our termly Careers Newsletter provides an overview of our Careers Programme in action.
 

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Any enquiries about CEIAG should be directed to our Careers Lead Nicky Thompson at n.thompson@springwoodhighschool.co.uk