Departmental Staff
- Mr A McMenamin - Head of Careers
- Mrs M McCaughey - School Careers Advisor
Department Overview
Careers education and guidance plays an important role in supporting pupils as they prepare for the future. In Years 8 to 10, pupils follow a structured programme which introduces the world of work, develops employability skills, and helps them explore a wide range of career pathways.
Pupils begin by learning about their own skills and qualities, different job roles, and how work operates in both the local and global economy. As they progress, they explore job families, career sectors, and wider global issues such as migration, environmental challenges, and international business. In Year 10, pupils focus on their own strengths, rights and responsibilities at work, and making informed choices for GCSE study.
Personal career planning is supported through research activities, access to careers software, and guidance from Careers Advisers. As pupils move through the school, they are encouraged to think about future pathways including further and higher education, apprenticeships, and employment.
The department also values ongoing links with parents and welcomes communication to support each pupil’s career journey.
More more information view our Careers Hub
Key Stage 3 - Overview
Careers education in Years 8, 9 and 10 introduces pupils to the world of work and supports them in developing an understanding of future opportunities.
In Year 8, pupils explore the foundations of employability. They learn about key skills and personal qualities, different job roles, and how work operates in the local and global economy. Pupils are also introduced to topics such as technology in the workplace, health and safety, and early career planning.
In Year 9, pupils build on this understanding by exploring careers in greater depth. They investigate job families, career areas, and labour market opportunities, while also considering global issues such as migration, environmental challenges, and international business. Pupils reflect on their own skills and interests and how these link to future career pathways.
In Year 10, pupils focus on preparing for future decisions. They explore their own strengths, learn about rights and responsibilities at work, and consider career pathways and GCSE choices.
Together, these experiences help pupils make informed decisions about their future.
Beyond the Classroom
Careers provision beyond the classroom is an important part of preparing students for life after school. Pupils are given a range of opportunities to engage with employers, universities and training providers to support informed decision making.
Guest speakers from a variety of industries and sectors are invited into school to share their experiences and provide insight into different career pathways. Students in Years 13 and 14 benefit from a dedicated careers fair, where they can explore options including higher education, apprenticeships and employment by speaking directly with organisations.
Mock interviews are organised to help students develop confidence, improve communication skills and gain valuable experience of real interview situations. These sessions provide personalised feedback to support progression.
In Post 16, all students take part in a structured work experience programme, allowing them to develop practical skills, build confidence in the workplace and gain a clearer understanding of their chosen career interests.
Together, these experiences ensure that students are well prepared for their next steps.