CAREERS EDUCATION AND INFORMATION, ADVICE AND GUIDANCE

Throughout their time at Beaumont we aim to help students

• identify their individual strengths and weaknesses,
• be aware of education, training, the world of work and career opportunities,
• be able to make informed choices about the opportunities available at each stage of transition,
• be aware of the community aspects of career development,
• be aware of the flexible nature of career development at the present time.

We have a well-equipped 'Connexions' Library situated off the main Library, where pupils have access to a wide range of information on courses in further and higher education and employment opportunities, and also to a number of useful software packages to help them investigate and make decisions about the options open to them. The Library has open access throughout the day, and the Library staff and Mr Carter - Assistant Headteacher (Learning Pathways) - are always happy to help with any queries.

A programme of impartial advice and guidance is developed as pupils progress through the school, especially from Year 9 onwards as students make decisions about what GCSE options to take, thereby starting the process of firming up on their areas of interest and possible future education/career paths.

For students in Year 9, 10 and 11 impartial advice and guidance is delivered as part of the Life Skills programme and as discrete activities on Curriculum Enrichment Days. Outside speakers and contributors are invited whenever appropriate. In Years 12 and 13 careers guidance (including guidance for university entrance) is delivered through the Tutorial programme, and again on certain Curriculum Enrichment Days.

As part of their impartial advice and guidance students will

• go on a one-week work experience placement in the summer term of Year 10,
• be offered guidance in how to fill in application forms, write a C.V, prepare for interviews etc.; and
• have a variety of careers lessons where they will investigate different careers and education routes, learn how to action plan and make informed decisions.

Individual guidance interviews are available for all students in Years 9 to 13 upon request, but in addition, every student in Year 9 and Year 11 has a personal interview with a senior member of staff in order to help them clarify their thoughts about life post 16, and identify the appropriate option(s) to pursue.

Beaumont works closely with Youth Connexions Hertfordshire to provide additional support, and many students benefit from discussing their options with the Youth Connexions Personal Adviser for Beaumont Mrs Jackie Duffy. Mrs Duffy visits the school regularly and offers students an impartial and confidential service to help them think about their options after Year 11 and beyond, be it college, higher education, employment, 6th form or self- employment.

Students are offered a one to one interview with Mrs Duffy, the majority being at key transition points eg. Year 11, 12 or 13, but many students also see her for the first time in Year 9 or 10. As well having as specific appointments, Mrs Duffy also offers a drop-in facility during one lunchtime a week, and is also available to give advice via email. Appointments with or contact details for Mrs Duffy can be requested from the School Reception. Further information about Youth Connexions is available at http://www.youthconnexions-hertfordshire.org/

If students want advice during the holidays, Connexions offer drop in afternoons at their office in St Albans located in the Oaklands College city campus – near Reception. Phone 01442 261511 for further information and/or to book an appointment.

All Year 10 students complete a one week work experience placement, and some older students also have the opportunity to participate in targeted work experience.