We have created a carefully structured Careers Education and Guidance Programme, which pupils receive via tutorial lessons in Years 9 – 11. This programme provides pupils with the skills, knowledge and understanding they need to effectively manage their individual career path.

We aim to give pupils the skills they will need on that path and careers advice at Slough Grammar does not begin and end by handing out information. Careers lessons are taught with identifiable learning outcomes so we can monitor and review each child’s progress. We have a dedicated careers advisor supported by seven members of staff who make up the careers team. Other staff are also involved in careers education and we work closely with the Careers advisor from Connexions CfBT (the Thames Valley based Careers Advisory Service).

Pupils benefit from one-to-one interviews, group interviews, informal lunchtime drop-in clinics and the resources of our extensive careers library. The library contributes to the development of research skills and decision-making abilities as well as opening pupils’ minds to a wealth of careers opportunities. A lifetime may involve periods of education, training, full-time employment, part-time work, freelance, home and voluntary work opportunities, our pupils will understand this and be able to make informed choices about their future.

In Year 9 careers emphasis is on preparing to make good GCSE option choices. In Year 10 pupils gain a sense of the reality of work through experience of work placements and in Year 11 they prepare for their GCSE’s, consider post 16 opportunities and attend our careers conference where talks are given by visiting speakers. Careers education continues into the Sixth Form and is an integral part of the Sixth Form study programme. Students have a personal tutor, access to careers advice and a full programme of support and guidance for entry into Higher Education. Each year students participate in ‘University Entrance’ days at school and Reading University, together with a special programme of support for aspiring Oxbridge entrants and those wishing to pursue a course in Medicine or Dentistry.

Careers education is about being ready for what comes next and taking your place in the world – Slough Grammar School pupils leave the school ready to take their place.