Year 11 Destination Interviews

All Year 11 students have attended a one-to-one meeting over the last two weeks with a member of staff to discuss their post-16 progression plans. The meetings are an important part of what we do to support students to decide on their next steps post-GCSEs.

Over the course of several days, Head of Year 11, Mr. Gander along with Mrs Harrison, Head of Personal Development;  Assistant Headteacher Mr. Cunningham and Senior Deputy Headteachers Mr. Callard and Mr. Richards met with all Year 11 students, to discuss the students’ subject choices and aspirations and the wide range of options available to them following GCSEs, including academic and vocational courses, apprenticeships and training.

Mr Gander said,

“These meetings help to support the students with their transition from GCSE's to Post-16 providers including Sixth Form, Further Education colleges, training or apprenticeships and can motivate and inspire them to work towards achieving those higher grades that are within their reach. The discussions also provide an opportunity to review any further support that may be required to help to make these goals a reality.”

We are proud of the support we offer our students to explore Post-16 opportunities and this was reflected during our recent inspection. The lead inspector spoke to our Year 11's about their future destinations and the students spoke with maturity and confidence about the courses they were going on to study and the grades that they would require to get there.

Some of our Year 11 students have provided the following feedback about their meetings:

Lucy “I found the process really stressful at first because I wasn't sure what I wanted to do. Initially, I chose a special effects makeup course, but with the support I received during the interview process I decided to change my path. Now, I plan to study Level 3 Childcare at college with the goal of becoming a private nanny. I feel much more confident now and have a clear understanding of the grades I need to get onto the course'. 

Caspar, 'Before starting the process, I was unsure about which college to choose. Mr. Cunningham provided me with lots of advice about both options, which helped me decide that Bexhill College offers the courses best suited to my interests and the way I study. I plan to study Maths, Chemistry & Biology at A-level. While I'm not entirely certain about my plans post A-level, I really like the idea of pursuing a career in forensic science or biochemistry'. 

Tabitha, 'The interview gave me the chance to ask questions about anything I was unsure of, which made the entire process clearer and less overwhelming. I now feel confident and prepared for the next steps in my education and more informed about the options available to me'

One parent commented, 'My daughter was really positive about her meeting with Mr. Gander. She went to her college interviews with confidence and clarity around why she’d chosen her course'.

Information about courses and open events at other further educations colleges local to Wadhurst is available via the following links:

• North Kent College
• East Sussex College (Lewes/Eastbourne/Hastings)

• Plumpton Agricultural College

• Bexhill 6th Form College

If any students or parents would like guidance or advice around apprenticeships or careers, please email Mr Cunningham at jcullingham@uplands-academy.org.