Careers education at BTA Hayes
At Bromley Trust Academy Hayes, we are committed to ensuring that our inclusive careers programme supports all our pupils to develop their potential and raise their career aspirations. Our aim is for every pupil to feel confident about having conversations about careers and their next steps after leaving school.
To support our Year 11 pupils as they make key progression decisions, we invite parents and carers into school to speak with representatives from colleges and training providers, ask questions, and explore the different pathways available to their children. This is followed up with a second parent and student meeting to provide an understanding of the support available and expectations of colleges.
London South East Colleges (LSEC) sits in the same education group (Elevare Civic Education Group) as our Multi Academy Trust (London South East Academies Trust). Therefore, our school has a strong relationship with the college, with clear progression pathways available for our learners. I have the opportunity to organise VIP tours of LSEC’s Bromley campus, , enabling our pupils to walk around the college in small groups. They get to ask questions about the different pathways available and to experience the college environment during a normal working day.
In addition, I have taken our Year 11 students to an apprenticeship event at LSEC’s Orpington campus. This was a great opportunity for them to take part in interactive activities and learn more about how apprenticeships work.
All Year 11 pupils receive one-to-one interviews with our independent careers adviser, Michelle Graydon. During these sessions, Michelle supports pupils with their next steps and helps them complete their college application forms.
Michelle also supports our Year 11 pupils when they attend their Subject Information Meetings at LSEC Bromley. This helps them feel more confident and supported during the transition process.
Our December Academic Review Day provides the opportunity for us to hold a mini transitions and Careers Fair. All our pupils, along with their parents/carers are encouraged to chat with local colleges, employers and support agencies as part of their visit to the school.
Apprenticeship Week and National Careers Week earlier this term were also enjoyed by all our pupils. Posters were displayed around the school to inspire them and raise awareness about apprenticeships. During tutor time, pupils took part in activities that encouraged discussion and helped start some really positive conversations about careers and apprenticeship pathways.
These activities have particularly inspired our Key Stage 3 pupils, many of whom have shown a strong interest in learning more about apprenticeships and the opportunities available to them.
Our inclusive Careers Programme also offers so much more, with industry visits, work experience, an annual in-school careers fair and strengths & skills sessions for the younger students, there is something for everybody and opportunities for everyone to aspire to!
Claire Brooks
Careers Leader
