Aldenham Careers Programme

At Aldenham, we are committed to empowering our students to make informed, independent choices that will enhance their life prospects and lead them towards pathways aligned with their aspirations and potential. Our Careers Programme offers a structured, supportive, and inspiring framework that enables pupils to develop both personal and professional skills as they plan for the future.

Sixth Form: Year 12 and Year 13

In the Sixth Form, careers education becomes more tailored and focused, equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to navigate life after school.

Year 12 students take part in fortnightly careers sessions, covering topics such as university and apprenticeship options, CV writing, interview techniques, and post-school planning. These sessions also feature a programme of inspirational guest speakers and engaging discussions on a wide range of exciting, contemporary topics designed to broaden students’ horizons and spark ambition. In addition, Year 12 students participate in a Mock Interview Evening and interview skills workshops, helping to build confidence and prepare for future opportunities.

All students in Year 12 and Year 13 are encouraged to make use of one-to-one careers guidance meetings with the Careers Coordinator. These are available to any student who chooses to access them, offering personalised advice on career planning, higher education, work experience, and future pathways.

In Year 13, careers provision is more bespoke, with tailored support for CV writing, personal statements, apprenticeship applications, and UCAS guidance.

Our commitment to careers education begins early and continues throughout every student’s time at Aldenham.

Dedicated careers activities are delivered through the curriculum and from Year 9 onwards, students also have access to Unifrog, the online careers and higher education platform. This invaluable tool enables pupils to research a wealth of careers and university options, complete personality and skills tests, and keep a record of their achievements and experiences right through to Year 13 — supporting them in building a clear and well-evidenced profile for future applications and their UCAS personal statements. While one-to-one guidance meetings are available to all pupils from Year 9 upwards, it is up to the individual to take up this opportunity when they wish to discuss their future plans.

A highlight of our provision is the biannual Aldenham Careers Fair, which invites students from Years 9-13 to meet with employers, universities, apprenticeship providers, training organisations, and gap year companies — providing a valuable opportunity to explore options for the future. Pupils in Years 10-13 are also sent regular information about work experience opportunities, careers webinars, and guest speaker talks to broaden their understanding of potential future pathways.

Our Careers Programme is carefully mapped against the Gatsby Benchmarks, ensuring that every Aldenham student benefits from meaningful and relevant careers education throughout their school journey.