In Yr7/8 all students are introduced to careers whilst preparing for their GCSE option choices in Character and Culture lessons. This guides the students towards making informed choices, full details are available in the KS4 curriculum guide. Students are introduced to Careers in Character and Culture lessons and via a GCSE options assembly. Students use Unifrog to investigate and explore different career profiles looking at the skills and qualifications required for that career. This is a website which allows students to research different job profiles at home or at school. Students participate in our own Character Education Programme to develop the skills that help that will be so sought after by employers in the future
During Yr9/10 and 11 students have career lessons in Character and Culture and have the opportunity of a one-to-one careers interview with Mr Hughes our careers adviser to discuss their post 16 option choices. In Yr10 all students participate in the Employability Skills Course during Character and Culture lessons, upon completion of this course students have the opportunity of completing a one-week work experience placement during the Summer holidays. The Character Education Programme continues in Years 9 and 10 with a strong focus on employability.
Sixth Form students have an introduction to applying for University and looking at alternative to Higher Education during the UCAS/Next Steps day in July each year. Southam College invites in universities and local employers to discuss Post 18 options and support students with personal statement, applications, and student finance. Students are supported by Mrs Campbell-Birch (Head of 6th form), 6th form tutors and Mr Hughes.
HOW ELSE CAN STUDENTS RECEIVE SUPPORT?
The Head of Year 11 and Head of 6th form work closely with the school Careers Adviser. All students have the opportunity of at least one individual careers interview to receive impartial careers information advice and guidance. Students and or parents can request career interviews with Mr Hughes. Our students (Yr7-13) who have special needs, are at risk or in need of specialised guidance will automatically be referred to Mr Hughes.
Local apprenticeship and job opportunities are promoted on the Southam College Facebook and X pages and students' blogs are regularly updated with the latest vacancies. Local college and training provider prospectus and open days are available from Mr Hughes in the career's office.
We design and plan work-related activities which help the student to demonstrate and acquire:
- Character Education
- Self-Awareness and Development
- Career Exploration
- Raising Career Aspirations & Career Management
- Support with researching and applying for GCSE, Post 16 and Post 18 options (Further Education, Higher Education, Apprenticeships and Employment Opportunities)
- Employability Skills (CV, Mock Interview & Work experience)
- Useful career related websites
