Careers Education Programme

We are proud to offer a comprehensive Careers Education programme designed to equip every student with the experiences and guidance they need to make informed, aspirational decisions about their future. Our programme aims to motivate and inspire students to achieve their best, while supporting them in successfully transitioning to the next stage of their lives and preparing them for the world of work.

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Our Programme

The Careers Education programme at St Edmund Arrowsmith includes a variety of engaging and meaningful activities, such as: -

  • Pastoral Curriculum Lessons: Careers education is integrated into the wider Personal Development curriculum for Years 7 to 11.
  • Assemblies and Careers Workshops: Inspiring talks and interactive sessions led by careers advisers, employers and teachers.
  • Careers Learning in Lessons: Subject teachers link curriculum content to career pathways and opportunities.
  • Employer Visits: Opportunities to meet and interact with employers on-site.
  • Workplace Experience: Real-world placements to build employability skills.
  • One-to-One Guidance: Personalised career advice for every student in KS4.

We collaborate with Further and Higher Education providers to ensure all students have access to the information and support they need for smooth transitions within and beyond St Edmund Arrowsmith.

Aspirations and Ambitions

Our Careers Education programme is shaped by the nationally recognised Gatsby Benchmarks, which represent the gold standard in careers and enterprise provision. These eight benchmarks guide us in delivering high-quality careers education, helping to ensure that our students: -

  • Increase Awareness: Understand the broad range of future opportunities available to them.
  • Raise Aspirations: Aim high in their personal, academic, and professional goals.
  • Find Motivation: See the connection between their studies and their future success.
  • Challenge Stereotypes: Break down barriers and misconceptions about career options.
  • Make Informed Choices: Feel confident about decisions at key stages, such as GCSE options and post-16 destinations.

Support and Opportunities

Throughout their time at St Edmund Arrowsmith, students benefit from a vibrant Careers Programme designed to inspire and empower them. Activities include: -

  • Employer and post-16 provider talks and workshops.
  • Mock interviews to develop confidence and interview techniques.
  • A Workplace experience to gain hands-on insights into potential careers.
  • Trips to colleges and universities to explore further education pathways.
  • Dedicated guidance appointments in KS4 and tailored support during key transition points, such as Year 9 Options and Year 11 career planning.
  • Careers lessons where pupils identify a range of jobs, as well as the skills and experience needed to carry them out; recognise their personal qualities and strengths, and the role they place in setting goals for the future based on LMI.

We adhere to the latest Statutory Guidance for Careers, including the Provider Access Legislation (2023) and the Baker Clause (2018), ensuring students receive impartial and comprehensive advice.

Working Together

We are committed to fostering strong partnerships with parents, employers, and external organisations. We welcome your feedback on our Careers Programme and encourage offers of support to help us continue providing valuable opportunities for our students.

Together, we can inspire the next generation to thrive in an ever-changing world of work.


If you have any questions or would like to find out more about our Careers Programme, please contact Mrs R Paul, Careers Lead:  coshaughnessy@arrowsmith.wigan.sch.uk

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