| The programme of Careers
Education begins in September of Year 7, with a short module
on general careers education, carried on in Year 8. The main
emphasis is on self-awareness, looking with pupils at what
skills they feel they possess, and an introduction to the
Careers Library, which will be an important focus in the future,
together with an introduction to some careers software.
The main development begins in Year 9 with
self-assessment, basic careers information, contact with a
specialist careers advisor, and the completion of the option
booklet in preparation for the transfer to Year 10. Each pupil
will have an interview with a senior member of staff, before
their options are finalised.
In Year 10 the syllabus includes self-evaluation,
looking at the world of work, and learning more about Further
and Higher Education. In our careers Library we have computers
and all the software packages are networked on the school
system. The School's website also provides up
to date information on careers education. Outside speakers
are invited in to provide information on careers and future
pathways. All pupils undertake a two-week period of work
experience with a briefing and debriefing session. Pupils
now have the opportunity to undertake work experience in
Berlin through our partner school.
The pattern continues in Year 11. Every
pupil receives a personal interview with a Careers Guidance
representative, before the completion of his or her college
transfer form. Speakers are invited in from the colleges to
inform pupils about su.bjects they have not experienced before
e.g. Law, Psychology, Sociology, Economics, etc. There is
a great emphasis on personal guidance in helping pupils to
make the right decision at this important crossroad in their
lives.
The School, which works closely with Futures
Connexions, has an excellent record in terms of preparing
pupils for Further Education, and for employment, with much
work being done on Modern Apprenticeships. Strong links
have been developed with the local colleges. For some years
a higher percentage of pupils from Hall Mead have moved
on to post-16 education than is the pattern both in Havering
and nationally. |
