Welcome

A clear focus on future careers is at the heart of the sixth form experience at Uplands.  The sixth form years enable our young people to develop the skills that they need to transition to a vitally different life in employment or at university.

Our careers guidance programme runs across sixth form life. It takes students at the start of Year 12 and helps them access all the information, support and experiences that they need to leave Year 13 with a clear goal and focus in mind. For more than half of our students every year, university remains the desired destination and our programme ensures they choose the right course and institution for them. We help develop the skills needed to make a successful application.  We also develop the study skills they require to achieve the grades needed to secure a place at university.  For many other students, joining an apprenticeship scheme or entering employment directly are more attractive options. Our programme is designed to give the same level of support, guidance and experience for all students.

Below is a summary of our programme.  Every year we welcome guest speakers from industry and commerce. We also arrange bespoke, aspirational trips tailored to the needs that emerge from year group to year group. Internally, students have access to support from their tutors and careers advisers.

All our sixth formers receive a weekly careers-focused session in Personal Development Time. In addition, we offer the following events throughout the two years:

Term 1, Year 12: the whole year group visits a university campus for the day. During the visit, they will experience the environment of a university campus, and attend seminars on student life.  Talks cover undergraduate courses, tips for the first year (including accommodation), and an opportunity to talk individually with third year undergraduates.  The event helps students to decide if they wish to go to university.

Term 3, Year 12: the whole year group attend a careers fair.  Most universities are represented at the fair, and they are joined by many of the most prestigious national apprenticeship schemes.  During the day, students are free to attend any seminars. As an event, it is an essential companion piece to the visit from term one.

Term 6, Year 12: internal Careers Day featuring:

• How to choose the right university and course.
• Everything you need to know about apprenticeships.
• How to write a successful CV and covering letter.
• How to start your UCAS application.
• How to write a successful Personal Statement.
• Successful interview techniques.
• College applications and how to put a portfolio together.
• The labour market and how to search for careers.

Term 3, Year 13: All students in Year 13 receive their second careers interview with a qualified Level 6 Careers adviser during the course of the year.

Mock Interviews — how to apply, prepare and then participate in an interview. The interviews themselves are held by professionals from relevant fields, and feedback on performance is given at the end.

Perfecting UCAS applications — working with tutors to redraft and polish.

Term 4, Year 13: One-to-one careers conversations with tutors, refining plans for life after Uplands and the accomplishments needed to achieve them.

Term 6, Year 12: Money Matters and Personal Finance workshop.

Throughout the two years, our students are encouraged to attend university open days, investigate work experience opportunities, and attend any relevant workplace events.

To read more about Uplands Academy Careers Plan, please click here.