Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)

The careers element of PSHE at KS4 empowers students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to navigate future educational courses and employment opportunities. Through this programme, students learn to create professional CVs, application forms and gain insights into interview expectations. Additionally, dedicated PSHE time is allocated to prepare students for their valuable Work Experience placement in Year 11. 

By combining practical career preparation with hands-on experience, we ensure our students are well-equipped to confidently pursue their desired educational and professional pathways.

In our curriculum, all Year 10 students benefit from a dedicated, timetabled careers lesson taught by our experienced Head of Careers. These engaging lessons delve into crucial aspects of the evolving world of work, employability skills, and diverse career opportunities. Students also have access to Morrisby Careers, a valuable resource that empowers them to explore and research personalised career plans. By utilising this platform and connecting students with their local and regional community of employers, our students gain valuable insights to make informed decisions about their future career paths.

Within our subject areas, we provide diverse and immersive career opportunities to enrich students' learning experiences. In Cookery and Nutrition, students engage in masterclasses led by skilled professionals such as butchers and fishmongers. In Drama and Theatre studies, they participate in dynamic workshops conducted by The Paper Birds Theatre Company. 

Students also benefit from an introduction to higher-level Maths at The University of Sheffield, broadening their understanding of mathematical applications. Additionally, our Science department actively involves students in the Teen Tech competition, fostering their innovation and problem-solving skills. These hands-on experiences within subject areas empower students to explore various career pathways and gain practical insights into their fields of interest.

We host an evening event with Higher education, Apprenticeship and Further Education providers and employers for our students and parents from all key stages to explore to help inform their future careers.

Each year, we adapt the focus of this event to keep up to date with the ever-changing landscape of careers.

We share opportunities encompassing virtual live events, work experience and competitions from a wide range of subjects and careers are shared weekly via email. Students and parents alike can access these resources to stay informed and actively engaged in diverse learning experiences.

Hosted at a local university, the event will allow students to network with students from across the GDST and participate in several team activities to develop skills that will help prepare them for Higher Education and the world of work.

All students from Year 7 to Year 13 are given life-long access to Morrisby Careers which matches their skills and interests to potential career matches and allows them to explore the latest local market information. This invaluable resource matches their skills and interests with potential career pathways. At Key Stage 4, students complete aptitude tests which enhance their career matches further.

All Year 11 students receive personalised, tailored careers meetings with a highly qualified Morrisby Careers Advisor. These one-on-one sessions offer dedicated time to discuss and explore a wide range of post-16 options, ensuring that students receive tailored guidance based on their unique interests and aspirations.

We provide comprehensive and unbiased support to both Year 11 students and parents as they navigate the selection of post-16 options. This includes organising open mornings for exploration, facilitating mentorship opportunities, arranging subject tasters, and providing crucial assistance on GCSE results day.

Each term, we extend a warm invitation to our many alumnae to speak live in conversation with the Head of Careers about their educational experiences and career journey to date. Students from all year groups have the opportunity to ask questions, receive valuable tips and network.

We host a weekly lunchtime drop-in session for all students spanning from Year 7 to Year 13 to ask questions and seek help for all things career-related.

Whether they need guidance on career exploration, educational pathways, or any other related queries, students can rely on this dedicated session to receive the support they need.

 We have speakers from a wide variety of sectors including health, law, business, marketing, finance, writing, drama and the public services. We have also paired up top London Recruiting Firm CWR to help our Year 11 students learn about perfecting a knock-out CV, job application and interview to help them ‘Secure their dream job’!