Options, Pathways & Careers Education
Key Stage 3
The Key Stage 3 curriculum operates throughout Years 7, 8 and 9 and prepares students so that they are ready to start their GCSE courses in Year 10.
Students choose a bespoke curriculum pathway at the end of year 9 which is tailored to their interests. They are supported by teaching staff and in the information they receive through PSHCE lessons and the Careers Advisor, in making the most informed choices. They are encouraged to study a broad range of subjects in STEM, EBACC subjects and the arts.
Key Stage 4
The Key Stage 4 curriculum is planned with a clear progression onto Post 16 studies and beyond. Key Stage 4 is a two year programme.
Whilst students work towards qualifications in their chosen subjects, additional time is given to offer enhanced subject depth and enrichment, beyond the examination syllabus.
An options booklet and information evening for parents are part of the provision to support students in making choices pre and Post 16. All year 11 students are provided with a careers consultation to discuss their choices and future plans.
The school employs an independent careers advisor who provides information and impartial advice about hte full range of available provision locally, to inform their choices about he most suitable provider for them. Information provided by the school includes information on where the qualification may lead. To find out more about the exam courses click here.
Good careers guidance widens students' horizons, challenges stereotypes and raises aspirations
Phil Sutton, Assistant Headteacher
& Post 16/Careers Lead
Careers Education
Careers education, advice, information and guidance (CEIAG) makes a major contribution to preparing young people for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life. Good careers guidance widens students' horizons, challenges stereotypes and raises aspirations.
A planned progressive programme of activities supports students in choosing 14-19 pathways that suit their interests and abilities and help them to follow a career path and sustain employability throughout their working lives.
The Careers Education Programme works to promote the three key areas of career learning:
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Self-development (including personal growth and aspirations)
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Career exploration (including learning about jobs and the world of work)
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Career management (including developing the skills and knowledge for career self-efficacy)
Implementation
The Careers Education Programme is taught through the delivery of careers units in PSHCE lessons in every year and 'micro-sessions' in tutor time at specific points. Some activities, such as the Year 11 interview day are targeted through dedicated off-timetable days and last year the Talentino programme was introduced into Year 8 (limited due to lockdown).
Careers education is supported by an independent and impartial careers consultantant employed by Trafalgar. In addition, we provide:
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Information Evenings and Parents Evenings
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A broad and balanced curriculum, including vocational and academic qualifications
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Personal, Social, Health, Citizenship & Economic (PSHCE) education in Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4
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Student leadership roles and responsibilties
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Visits to skills and employment fairs
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Visits to universities
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Work experience through 'work shadowing' in Year 10 (not conducted in 2019/2020/2021)
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Targeted CEAIG and transition planning for students with Special Educational Needs
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Individual independent careers interviews in Years 10 and 11
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Large/small group independent careers interviews in Years 7 to 9
Click here to view our Careers Information Booklet. Click here to visit our Careers site for current students on RMUnify (you will need to sign in with your school email address).
Careers Equality & Diversity
Careers education is provided to all students and provision is made to allow all students to access the curriculum. Students are encouraged to follow career paths that suit their interests, skills and strengths with the absence of stereotypes. All students are provided with the same opportunities and diversity is celebrated.