On this page is key careers information students need to consider at each year group. There's plenty to think about and don't forget to talk to your teachers, form tutors, boarding staff, parents and families.
Years 7 and 8
You may be wondering why it is necessary to consider your career options at such a young age. While it may seem premature to contemplate what you want to do when you grow up, taking the time to explore different career paths and understand the world of work can greatly benefit you in the long run. Here are a few reasons why thinking about careers matters, even at your age:
Exploration of Interests: Considering different careers helps you explore your interests and passions. This process allows you to identify what subjects and activities you find most engaging. Exploring various career options will enable you to align your future studies towards subjects that you enjoy, making your educational journey more fulfilling and meaningful.
Goal Setting and Motivation: Thinking about careers helps you set goals for your future. When you have a clear vision of what you want to achieve, it becomes easier to stay motivated and focused throughout your secondary school years. Having clear goals can provide you with a sense of direction and purpose, guiding your future decisions.
Subject Relevance: Understanding different careers can help you see the relevance of the subjects you study. When you can connect your learning to real-world applications, it enhances your understanding and appreciation for the subjects. It also allows you to see how different subjects complement each other, paving the way for potential future career paths.
Preparation for the Future: Reflecting on careers at a young age prepares you for the world of work. By considering the skills, qualifications, and experience required for various careers, you can begin to develop the necessary skills and competencies early on. This preparation will give you a competitive advantage and increase your prospects when you enter the job market.
There are several steps you can take to start exploring careers at this stage but use Unifrog (www.unifrog.org) as your main tool:
Find Out: Use Unifrog to find out what jobs and sectors you might be most suited to. The Quiz Tools on Unifrog are useful ways to narrow down your options and consider things you might not have thought of before.
Explore: Use Unifrog to find information on different careers that interest you. Learn about the qualifications, skills, and experience that are typically required for those roles. You can use the Unifrog ‘Careers’ tool to help you.
Talk to Experts: Engage with professionals from various fields through guest assemblies or career events. Speaking to people already working in different careers can provide invaluable insights into their day-to-day responsibilities and the path they took to get there.
Remember, Year 7 and Year 8 is just the beginning of your secondary school journey, and there is plenty of time to explore and refine your interests. Embrace the opportunity to think about your future careers, as it will undoubtedly guide you towards a fulfilling and successful path.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, please do not hesitate to reach out to your teachers, tutors, or the career team at OSH. We are here to support and guide you on your journey.
Year 9
Year 9 is a critical year in your Careers Education. This is the year that you will select your GCSE and Level 2 Qualification Subject Options.
In January of Year 9, Mr. Sidaway will outline the available GCSE and Level 2 courses to you.
Choosing your GCSE options is an exciting and empowering milestone in your educational journey. That said, making decisions about the subjects you want to study at GCSE are tricky, requiring careful thought about your skills, interests and future career goals.
As you progress to Key Stage 4 study, you will continue to follow a core programme of subjects. These include GCSEs in English Language, English Literature, Mathematics and Science. Within these Core Subjects there are also courses in Physical Education and Beliefs and Issues, which includes RSE, Citizenship and the study of ethical and religious issues.
In addition to this, you will select four further subjects as your ‘options’.
Before you embark on your options journey, please keep the following advice in mind:
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
|
Seek plenty of advice from parents, class teachers, form tutors etc. Look into the courses you are thinking about doing in more depth, to ensure it’s a good fit for you. Select subjects you feel you would be skilled in, passionate about, or will help you on the next steps in your journey. |
Select courses simply because your friends have selected them. Select courses without being clear on what the course will entail, how it’s assessed etc. Select courses that will narrow your future choices or career paths. |
Option choices for 2024 include:
- Art
- Business
- Chinese
- Computing
- COPE (invite only)
- Design and Technology
- Drama
- Economics
- Food Preparation and Nutrition
- French
- Geography
- History
- Music
- Physical Education
- Religion, Philosophy and Ethics
Year 10
Work experience placements allow students to gain a deeper knowledge of work environments by spending a longer period in one workplace. Work experience is extremely popular and is an excellent opportunity for students to undertake a very different role and develop new skills. In many cases, students may have definite ideas about potential employers or industries they would like to learn more about. This allows them to develop a better understanding of their next step in terms of future study and training options, allowing them to make more informed decisions.
To decide what placement would best suit you, it is a good idea to use the Careers Library and Test Tools that you can access on your Unifrog account (www.unifrog.org).
As part of the work experience programme, students can either source their own placement or ask that a placement is sourced for them.
When making a phone call to a prospective work experience employer, it’s important to still have a pre-organised plan, as you would when sending an email.
Here are some hints and tips on how to have a successful phone call:
- On your first go, it may be useful to have an adult present with you in case you want to ask any questions to them if you are unsure about anything.
- Be polite and cheerful.
- Speak clearly and not too fast so you’re easily understood.
- Make some notes before the call about what you want to talk about so you don’t forget anything.
- While you’re on the phone, make a note of anything important that you’d need to remember.
- Even if you don’t feel very confident, try and sound like you do! Take a deep breath before you call, and give yourself time to think when asked a question.
- If the employer is unable to offer you a placement, try not to be disheartened – you may need to ask a lot of places before you hear anything back.
Year 11
Choosing your post-16 options means selecting the courses and qualifications you'll be studying for the next two years after Year 11. These choices will largely determine what you can do in the future – whether it's going to university, pursuing a vocational career, or entering the workforce directly.
As a starting point, consider the following questions:
- Have you started thinking about your post 16 options?
- What are some factors that you think should influence your decision?
- Have you considered your passions and interests?
- How can you balance your aspirations with the expectations of others?
Choosing your post 16 options shouldn't be a daunting task. Here are a few activities you can engage in to help you make informed decisions:
- Research: Learn about different courses, qualifications, and potential career paths. Your Unifrog account is a great way to look at careers and future subjects of study.
- Attend Open Days or Taster Sessions: Get a taste of what the courses and colleges have to offer.
- Seek Advice: Speak to your teachers, tutors, and OSH career advisors who can offer guidance and support.
- Reflect: Take some time to reflect on your passions, interests, and long-term goals.
Remember, this decision is about finding a balance between your dreams for the future and realistic expectations. It's essential to be true to yourself and make choices that align with your interests and ambitions.
Links
Heart of Worcestershire College
Years 12 and 13
Starting with university, vocational courses, or apprenticeships, there are several paths you can take after Year 13. It's crucial to realise that the choice you make will not only determine the next few years of your life but can also impact your long-term career prospects.
Year 12 is a crucial time when you need to start making decisions about your future beyond school. It's important to explore various options, consider your interests and goals, and seek guidance to make informed choices. Remember, there is no right or wrong path - what matters is that you choose the path that aligns with you and your aspirations.
Choosing your post 18 options shouldn't be a daunting task. Here are a few activities you can engage in to help you make informed decisions:
- Research: Learn about different courses, qualifications, and potential career paths. Your Unifrog account is a great way to look at careers and future subjects of study.
- Attend Open Days or Taster Sessions: Get a taste of what the courses and colleges have to offer.
- Seek Advice: Speak to your teachers, tutors, and OSH school career advisors who can offer guidance and support.
- Reflect: Take some time to reflect on your passions, interests, and long-term goals.
Links
Go Overseas - Gap Year Programs
In Year 12, all students will embark on a work experience placement. Work experience placements allow students to gain a deeper knowledge of work environments by spending a longer period in one workplace. Work experience is extremely popular and is an excellent opportunity for students to undertake a very different role and develop new skills. In many cases students may have definite ideas about potential employers or industries they would like to learn more about. This allows them to develop a better understanding of their next step in terms of future study and training options allowing them to make more informed decisions.
To decide what placement would best suit you, it is a good idea to use the Careers Library and Test Tools that you can access on your Unifrog account (www.unifrog.org).
Labour Market Information (LMI)
Labour Market Information refers to data and insights about jobs, careers, and employment trends within a specific geographical area; in this case Dudley. It encompasses information on the skills and qualifications required for different occupations, projections for future job growth, and the demand for specific industries. By being aware of the demand for different job roles, the skills employers are looking for, and the changes in the labour market, our students can better prepare themselves for the competitive world beyond school.
Throughout the academic year, we will be providing students with opportunities to explore different careers, engage in career-related activities, and access up-to-date labour market information. Our wider pastoral team will be on hand to support students in making informed choices about their education and future career paths based on their interests, aspirations, and the information available.
By working together, we can ensure that our students are well-informed and equipped to navigate the ever-changing labour market.
Labour Market Profile: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/1946157188/report.aspx?town=dudley
Use the below widget to find out more information about LMI.