On Friday 25 September, Year 9 spent a full Personal Development Day looking at the routes open to them after Year 11 and the skills employers look for.
Exploring post-16 pathways
The day started in the Hall with a joint session alongside Year 11. Sixth forms, colleges and apprenticeship providers gave presentations and ran a provider marketplace, where pupils could talk to them directly. Pupils learned about A levels, college courses, apprenticeships and T Levels, and saw how the subjects they study now link to future careers. Question-and-answer sessions let them raise their own questions with each provider.
Working with Johnson & Johnson
After the break, half the year group joined a workshop run by employers from Johnson & Johnson. Pupils took part in a team-building challenge, communication activities, problem-solving tasks and a mock recruitment exercise. The employers then gave feedback on what they had seen. The two groups swapped after lunch, so every pupil took part.
Virtual work experience with U-Explore
The other group worked with their form tutors in the computer rooms on U-Explore. They completed a skills audit, a career interests questionnaire and an aspirations survey, and then tried a virtual work experience placement. Pupils can complete as many placements as they like, so we encourage them to keep trying different careers at home. They sign in with their school Microsoft account at www.u-explore.com.
Reflection and pupil voice
The day ended with a reflection session. Pupils set their Life and Career Goals on U-Explore and filled in a survey on MS Teams. Their feedback will shape future enrichment days.
Thank you
Thank you to the visiting providers, Johnson & Johnson and Katy Henson and to our form tutors for making the day possible.
