Careers and University
Given that one of the aims of the Sixth Form provision is to prepare our students for what follows after their secondary educational experience, careers advice and guidance are an integral part of our offer.
In order to prepare students for professional life and the world of work, students will have access a wide range of opportunities.
- Careers advice is high-quality, up-to-date and locally relevant. Subjects provide opportunities for good quality, meaningful encounters with the world of work.
- Students are provided with regular and meaningful links with higher education and professions.
- A complementary programme of masterclasses and lectures from the world of work and industry is delivered throughout the academic year.
- The enrichment programme and co-curricular opportunities offer breadth and depth and allow students to engage with experiences beyond their usual interests.
- Alongside the established careers programme, there are regular opportunities to meet the Federation Careers Advisor.
- Financial health and financial planning sessions are delivered in order to prepare students for independent living.
Applying to university
Click HERE to download the presentation about UCAS applications and personal statements.
The majority of our students decide to continue their educational journey at university. Every year several of our students attend some of the top universities in the country with many accepting offers at Russell Group universities as well as Oxford and Cambridge.
There is a comprehensive programme of UCAS support and guidance in order to help students with their applications and any subsequent interviews. Student UCAS applications at East Dulwich reflect informed and realistic aspirations and choices in order to optimise an individual’s chances of meeting the requirements of their course offers.
In order to ensure that a student is progressing towards the demands of the offer, regular course progress meetings and assessments mean that subject intervention and support are timely and targeted.
UCAS - information for parents
UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admission Service) is the admission organisation for higher education in the UK. Students can also use Unifrog to search for courses, create shortlists and much more.
The UCAS information tool for parents can be used for advice, hints and tips to help your child, or someone you care for, through the application process or to subscribe to the parent newsletter for regular updates.
The UCAS website also includes student finance information, where you can find out more about fees and the range of financial support available.
UCAS presentation for parents
We know parents often ask for information on the UCAS process. Click HERE to view the parent guide to UCAS. It illustrates the benefits of higher education, outlines the application process, and advises parents on what they can do to support their child.
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a real job with hands-on experience, while also training to achieve the relevant qualification that supports your industry. Some of our leavers opt for this route having followed a vocational pathway so have developed a specific skill set ready for the work place or because they do not want to attend university.
There are different levels of apprenticeships and it is vital that you choose the correct level before applying:
- Intermediate – This equates to 5 good GCSE passes (Level 2 qualifications)
- Advanced Apprenticeship – which equates to 2 A Level passes (Level 3 qualifications)
- Higher Apprenticeships – which equates to either a Foundation Degree/Higher National Certificate. (Level 4 qualifications)
There are lots of benefits to studying for an apprenticeship. Some of them are:
- You are earning a competitive salary and not getting into debt.
- You are not investing in further studies at university.
- Your employer is investing in your learning.
- You are achieving an industry recognised qualification.
- You are gaining invaluable work experience.
- You are developing your soft skills which are transferable.
How do I find an apprenticeship?
You can find them in many ways. Apart from your careers advisor helping you, there are many useful websites, including:
Our partners
Pathway
We are fortunate to be working with Pathway CTM which, is an award winning Social Enterprise that is transforming employability training, support and opportunities for schools and students.
They provide an award-winning programme to thousands of students throughout the UK, helping young people make informed decisions about their next step from leaving school. Often choices and opportunities are not clear enough for students, when in fact there are many amazing paths that are out there for each and every student.
Visit the Pathway website.
Unifrog
Unifrog is the one-stop-shop for all things careers and destinations. They provide an online platform where students in KS5 can explore their interests, then find and successfully apply for their best next step after school.
Visit the Unifrog website .
Career Ready
Career Ready is a national social mobility charity which works with employers, schools, and volunteers to support young people across the UK.
Visit the Career Ready website.