Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) At Stratton School, we believe it is crucial that all students should have access to ‘real world and relevant learning’. We understand that careers information is critical for students when they come to making the best possible decisions, next steps and future career choices. The careers programme is intended to be flexible and adaptable as further opportunities become available.  We have a dedicated team of knowledgeable and experienced professionals who can help, support and teach students about the choices available.  Our aim is to make sure that every student achieves their full potential.  

Our Career Team

If you would like any information, or have any questions on our careers provision, please contact us via the below.

Angela Manley - Careers Leader and Advisor
Tel: 01767 220000
Email:

AManley@stratton.school

Rob Clarke - Assistant Principal and CEIAG Responsibility
Tel: 01767 220000
Email:

RClarke@stratton.school

Joe York - Senior Tutor and Year 10 Work Experience Coordinator
Tel: 01767 220000
Email:

JYork@stratton.school

Kath Emsley - Administrator and Year 12 Work Experience Coordinator
Tel: 01767 220000
Email:

KEmsley@stratton.school

Angela Fisher - Head of Business, Finance & Economics and Enterprise Lead
Tel: 01767 220000
Email:

AFisher@stratton.school

Our Career team is supported by a serving Academy Councillor TBC who can be contacted by e-mailing through the Principal’s PA 

JMcCarthy@stratton.school

Our school is part of Meridian Trust and we work collaboratively with other schools in the Trust to offer a website which has been developed for parents and carers: Meridian Career Pathways  

We know, from research, that students ask their parents first about careers, qualifications, what it is like in the workplace and what they should study. 

The educational and qualification landscape has changed dramatically over recent years. This website has been designed to help parents with ‘Activities’, ‘Conversation Starters’ and ‘Useful Websites’ and is designed to offer help and support at every stage of a student’s journey through a Meridian Trust school.

Policies and Further Information  

Stratton Upper School believes in giving further education, higher education and training providers the opportunity to talk to students at the school. Please find our Provider Access Legislation below.

Please also find below an overview of our careers programme for all year groups and a copy of our CEIAG (Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance) policy.

All students have to continue in education or training until the end of the academic year in which they are 18.  This does not mean young people must stay in school.  They will be able to choose from: 

• full-time education (e.g. at a school or college) 
• an apprenticeship 
• part-time education or training combined with one of the following: 
• • employment or self-employment for 20 hours or more a week 
  • volunteering for 20 hours or more a week. 

More information on choices and how parents can help their children can be found on the Meridian Career Pathways website.

Measuring Impact 

The careers programme at our school is monitored annually and this evaluation includes: 

• A review of destination data as an outcome of the careers programme. 
• A review of the programme against the Gatsby Benchmarks to ensure best practice.
• A review of data from Unifrog that feeds into the Gatsby Benchmarks.
• A review of the Future Skills Questionnaire which students complete each year.

Labour Market Information 

A key component of our careers provision is providing information to students on how to look at Labour Market Information (LMI), interpret the data and recognise professions, industries and jobs which are both in demand or in decline. We teach, within our Career’s programme, LMI, and analyse entry routes, salaries, skills and qualifications needed for a variety of roles, jobs and careers.         

• Labour Market Information for Central Bedfordshire can be found HERE
• For national LMI trends click on Meridian Career Pathways website HERE

Preparing for Success

As you transition from primary/middle school into secondary school, we are excited to support you on this new journey. At Stratton School, we believe that careers education, information, advice, and guidance (CEIAG) are crucial for helping you achieve your full potential. We aim to prepare you for the ever-changing job market, ensuring you are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue your dreams.

Our Commitment to Careers Education

We value careers education as a vital part of your overall development. By integrating it into your learning from Year 7, we ensure you have the tools to make informed decisions about your future. Our dedicated team of teachers, advisors, and external partners work together to provide a comprehensive CEIAG program that is engaging, informative, and tailored to your needs.

Year 7: Building Foundations

Focus: Introduction to Careers and Self-Awareness

In Year 7, we focus on introducing you to the world of careers and helping you understand the vast opportunities available. Our activities are designed to spark your curiosity and encourage you to start thinking about your interests and aspirations.

Term 1: Discovering Possibilities

Ø  Introduction to Careers: Explore different job roles and sectors.

Ø  Introduction to the World of Work: Guest Speaker Series. Meet professionals from various industries who share their career journeys.

Ø  Understanding Personal Strengths: Identify your skills and interests.

Term 2: Exploring Pathways

Ø  Exploring Different Job Roles: Research project to investigate a career that interests you and present your findings.

Ø  Career Quizzes and Games: Interactive activities to match your skills with potential careers.

Ø  Skills for the Future: Develop essential workplace skills including teamwork and communication.

Term 3: Setting Goals and Aspirations

Ø  Dream Job Presentations: Share your future aspirations with your classmates.

Ø  Careers and Enterprise: Explore the journey of our food.

Ø  Reflection and Goal-Setting: Set personal and academic goals for the next year.

Year 8: Expanding Horizons

Focus: Understanding the Job Market and Skills Development

In Year 8, we build on the foundations laid in Year 7, deepening your understanding of career pathways, and helping you start planning for the future.

Term 1: Understanding the Job Market

Ø  Labour Market Information: Learn about growing industries and job trends.

Ø  Career Pathways: Explore different routes to various careers, including apprenticeships and university.

Ø  The Importance of Education: Explore how education impacts career opportunities and earning potential.

Term 2: Skills for Success

Ø  Subject Choices: Guidance on selecting GCSE subjects.

Ø  Developing Employability Skills: Focus on critical skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and adaptability.

Ø  Financial Literacy: Basics of managing money and understanding salaries.

Term 3: Planning Ahead

Ø  Career Action Plan Development: Create a personalised plan outlining steps to achieve your career goals.

Ø  Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Introduction to starting your own business.

Ø  Mock Interviews: How to Get Hired

Support and Resources

Throughout your journey, our careers team is here to support you. You can access one-on-one guidance, participate in drop-in sessions, and use Unifrog, a comprehensive careers platform designed to support students in making informed decisions about their future education and career pathways. By integrating detailed information on university courses, apprenticeships, and job opportunities worldwide, Unifrog allows students to compare their options side by side. The platform includes tools for building CVs, writing personal statements, and tracking career aspirations, ensuring that students receive personalised guidance and support.

Looking Ahead

We are committed to helping you navigate the exciting possibilities ahead. By engaging in our comprehensive CEIAG program, you will be well-prepared to make informed decisions, pursue your passions, and thrive in an ever-evolving job market. Welcome to your future at Stratton School – we are excited to see you achieve great things!