Careers and Higher Education   

Introduction

Careers Education is largely covered as an integral part of the Personal, Social and Health & Citizenship Education provision.

The underlying aim behind the careers work that we do is to enable the pupils to make appropriate career-related decisions. As pupils work through the various year groups they are encouraged to develop the self-analysis and investigation skills which they require to make decisions.

Careers Education at Rishworth

In Years 7 and 8 the content of careers related work is focused upon self-analysis in terms of "What are my personal skills and qualities ?" and "What do I already know about jobs and careers?"

In Year 9 the world of work is introduced and pupils are encouraged to begin considering career possibilities. This links with the guidance which is provided to help select appropriate GCSE options. Tutors play a valuable role, as do the teachers who provide information about their subjects to supplement the Choices Booklet.

In Year 10 further work is carried out on self analysis and linking this to career families. At this stage the pupils are given guidance on the resources in the Careers Library and are made aware of what to look for as well as how to look. All pupils undergo a week of Work Experience during the Trinity Term which provides useful information about the world of work. In addition to this the School links with the Independent Schools Careers Organisation which enables pupils to opt into the Morrisby Testing Scheme as well as offering career advice at the Year 10 Parents’ Evening.

In Year 11 much of the work covered in the fortnightly PSHCE lesson relates to careers. Topics such as post-16 options, investigating possible careers, job applications, equal opportunities and interview preparation are all dealt with.

As the Rishworth Sixth Form is the natural objective of many of our pupils there is a great deal of introductory work in terms of Sixth Form life as well as AS/A Level subject familiarisation. The Year 11 pupils attend a Sixth Form Taster Day and Open Evening and are given a Sixth Form Choices booklet. Tutors will provide valuable support and advice, and discussions about post-GCSE options will take place on the Year 11 Parents Evening.

In the Sixth Form there is a well structured programme related to Higher Education including the Course Discover programme which suggests possible courses, guidance on UCAS, help on finding information and job application. Tutors will provide support and advice with regard to university application and sixth form students involved in the UCAS application process are encouraged to visit university Open Days. The enhanced Sixth Form curriculum includes aspects such as application forms, c.v. writing and interview techniques.

Other information

Armed Forces Careers Officers visit the School at least once a year to meet and advise pupils in Years 10, 11 and the Sixth Form, who have an interest in the Forces.

There is a well stocked Careers Library which provides books, leaflets, videos and CD ROMs covering job information, interview and job application advice as well as university prospectuses. Interviews with local careers service officers can be arranged.