Writes Sue Grice, Head of Careers
On 11 March, Fourth Form pupils took part in the Fourths Careers Inspirations Day, an important step in developing their independence as they begin thinking about GCSE options and future pathways. The event forms a key part of our Careers Education Programme, designed to equip pupils with the knowledge and confidence to make well informed decisions about their next steps.
Choosing GCSEs can feel like a significant milestone, and our aim is to help pupils approach the process positively. Alongside considering their strengths and interests, pupils are encouraged to understand how choices link to future opportunities, working life, and personal aspirations.
Building Decision Making Skills
Ahead of the event, pupils took part in a PSHE session focused on effective career related decision making. They explored practical strategies, reflected on their personal preferences, and learned how to evaluate different options thoughtfully.
Broadening Horizons
The Careers Inspirations Day started with a visit of ten OMTs working in fields including Law, Medicine, Finance, FinTech, Advertising, Media, Science and Sport, who visited the pupils in their classrooms. The OMT speakers shared their own career journeys and answered questions from pupils, illustrating the many routes a career can take and reassuring them that success does not rely on a single, fixed pathway.
Later in the day, pupils used Morrisby to explore a wide range of careers related to their own interests, examining pathways, qualifications, and the skills required. Knowing how to research specific roles and sectors in greater depth using trusted sources is a key career management skill.
The day ended with a session on teamwork, which is a critical skill in an AI fuelled world, with many facets to master. In our session, pupils engaged in competitive Lego challenges to practice and refine their own teamwork skills.
Looking Ahead
During a follow up PSHE lesson, pupils explored overall skills development and creating stories for interviews. Although this might seem early days, developing the knowledge and habits early on means there is time to build mastery before pupils need to apply for highly competitive work experience and internships.
By combining decision making guidance, real world insight and practical skills-based activities, we aim to ensure each pupil feels well supported now as they make their GCSE choices, and confident in their growing understanding of the world beyond school.
