Careers & UCAS

One of the most important tasks for the students during their time in the Sixth Form is planning what to do at the end of their time with us. Making the right decisions is vital for their future success and having access to high quality careers advice is essential.

We provide well-informed assistance with UCAS applications, taking account of the latest developments in the Higher Education (HE) sector and new opportunities for young adults.  Students can be assured of informed and meticulous assistance with their choice of universities and courses. If students are seeking an alternative to university, such as higher level apprenticeships or the new degree apprenticeships, they can be confident of receiving well-informed guidance.

Our aim is to meet individual needs, while ensuring that the following essential ingredients are included:

• Participation in The Centigrade Scheme – an in-depth computer analysis designed to indicate academic potential and opportunities beyond A Level.
• Identification and investigation of skills and interests through workshop sessions using specialist software.
• Individual and group work on interview techniques.
• Action planning, making job applications and construction of a professional level CV.

There is an emphasis on encouraging students to expand their skills base through volunteering opportunities and work experience placements. We recognise the need for students to identify areas of interest that will be useful to careers and courses and to expand their knowledge beyond the A Level curriculum. To this end, students will be introduced to university online learning sites such as Future Learn, which will enhance their knowledge in a wide variety of fields.

The majority of students choose to apply to a Higher Education course through UCAS. We hold all the latest university prospectuses, as well as information on a wider array of courses including art and design, drama and theatre, working in agriculture and many others. We are also able to provide assistance to those seeking educational opportunities abroad or contemplating a gap year.

Students will be provided with all the assistance needed to make a successful application to university and this includes:

• Attendance at the UCAS Higher Education Fair where they can talk directly with university admissions tutors.
• Introduction to UCAS in the Lower Sixth and ongoing assistance with the completion of university application forms in the fourth term. This includes assistance with preparing and writing personal statements.
• Advice on university applications from invited university admissions tutors.
• Assistance with extra admissions tests and preparation for Oxbridge, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry and Law. The School hosts a UKCAT course every year.
• Students are also advised to attend university open days, and to participate in university taster courses, as well as suitable master classes.

In the Spring term of Year 13, careers advice is available on an individual basis for any students needing guidance at this time and students complete a personal finance course so that they are able to manage their money and are well prepared for the next stage of life. Once the A Level results are published in August, further assistance will be available for anyone who needs help during this crucial time.