Why Act Now?

• Critical Reflection Time: The Christmas break is a perfect opportunity to reflect on your interests, strengths, and future aspirations without the daily school routine. Use this time to seriously consider what you enjoy and where you see yourself in the coming years.
• Research: Begin exploring your options now. Whether you’re considering further education, vocational training, or apprenticeships, Unifrog is a very useful and this resource available to pupils and parents/carers.
• Family Discussions: It’s the perfect time to have in-depth discussions with family members about your future. Their support and insights are invaluable as you navigate these decisions.
• Setting short-term Goals: Start setting clear, actionable goals for the New Year – e.g. revision for January PPEs & making applications. Having a plan in place will help you stay focused and motivated as you move forward.

Immediate Next Steps – over the festive period:

• Explore Unifrog – Complete quizzes to explore career options. Search the careers library by skill, theme, work environment. Search for College/Sixth Form courses & Apprenticeship opportunities by distance from home. Start your research now.

• Explore Online Resources: As well as Unifrog, websites like UCAS, National Careers Service, Prospects, and apprenticeship portals. Find an apprenticeship, Amazing Apprenticeships, offer a wealth of course/careers information.

• When considering apprenticeships after Year 11, it is important to have a College/Sixth Form course back-up option, as they can be very competitive.

Next steps in January:

• Attend Open Days: When you have identified possible courses, it is very useful to attend an open day – this will offer a better insight into course content and colleges/sixth forms. Open Days – Birmingham Careers Service
• Talk to school staff: Reach out to your teachers, pastoral managers, careers manager as soon as possible for personalised advice and guidance.

When Year 11 pupils return in January, we will be asking everyone to complete a few questions regarding their intentions for after Year 11:

• Chosen/Most likely course option.

• Course Level – Level 3 (A-levels/BTEC/T-Level/Apprenticeship) or Level 2 (BTEC/Apprenticeship).

• Preferred College/Sixth Form.

• Back-up option.

This is a pivotal moment in your educational journey. Acting now will set you on the path to a successful and fulfilling future. Don’t wait, start planning today!

Mr S Huckstep – Careers Manager