Careers

a picture of a group of students reading a book

Our purpose is to excite pupils about their future aspirations, to inform them of the range of opportunities available, and to provide the means to explore them.

It is helpful to think about ‘careers’ as a journey rather than one big decision that needs to be made once and for all, like jumping off a cliff into the unknown. A career journey is made up of lots of small steps which can start in Year 7 and build as students progress through the school and beyond. Navigating decisions and opportunities requires specific career development skills which are taught and practiced at school.
 
Careers education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG) are offered through a varied programme of events, lessons, and one-to-ones. With oversight from senior leaders and governors, this programme is co-ordinated by our Head of Careers, Mrs Cuthbert and many staff from across our departments are involved with its delivery.
 
At KES, we build career skills into student learning across curriculum lessons and co-curricular activities. Pupils are encouraged to discover their unique interests, strengths, and skills. As they widen their experiences and subject knowledge, and as they grow up through the school, they will be supported to reflect on what brings them the most energy, meaning, and satisfaction.
 

Career navigating is a life-long journey, which can have many twists and turns. We want students to be able to identify what matters to them in their work choices and to have the career development skills to respond to opportunities that arise.

There are assemblies throughout the year, visiting speakers, interview skills workshops, employer visits, and events with higher education providers. We are privileged to have the support and involvement of an active alumni network and welcome Old Edwardians and parents to speak to the pupils at networking events, societies and talks. 

In Year 11 pupils are offered a one-to-one Careers Advice Session, and Sixth Formers can book follow-up advice sessions from Mrs Cuthbert and will meet with the Head of Sixth Form for support with their higher-education decision making. 

Find out more about our Careers Programme

Take a look at our year-by-year careers provision here to see how we support our pupils at every stage of their journey.

What is the future of work?

Increasing pressure on higher education, along with significant changes in the job market require a school careers programme that is forward thinking and adaptable, but one that also remains focused on the individual needs and choices of students.

Employers believe that critical thinking and problem-solving skills will continue to grow in prominence in the next five years. Newly emerging skills that have made it to the top of the priority list are skills in self-management such as active learning, resilience, stress tolerance and flexibility. 

Degree Apprenticeships are rising in popularity and availability and are an alternative pathway to the traditional university route. They focus on building and using employability skills from the outset, alongside university learning. Degree Apprenticeships are available in IT, media, finance, engineering, law and many other subjects, now including healthcare.

Our school offers a wide range of careers events, so I’d definitely recommend attending some of the many talks available at KES. It’s also worth speaking to Mrs Cuthbert, as she is very helpful and offers valuable advice and support in finding a career that suits you.
Year 12 pupil feedback

Explore our resources

Looking for more resources to support your child’s career development? Visit our parent resources section for guidance, tools and advice. 

Work experience

Pupils do their school work experience at the end of Year 11. This week-long placement gives them the opportunity to learn about researching and applying for a job, being in an adult work environment and testing out ideas for future career areas. Work Experience Policy, Procedure and FAQs gives more information.

Pupils can do work experience and voluntary work at any time during their leisure time and school holidays. Virtual work experience is also encouraged.

“Attending the networking event today has been really helpful understanding why people love their job and learning about the career path they took.”

Year 10 pupil

A Careers Event at King Edward’s School, Birmingham on Wednesday 28 June 2023.

Provider Access Statement

KES are enthusiastic about welcoming providers into school to talk with pupils of all ages about the opportunities and pathways available to them. This complies with the school’s legal obligations under Section 42B of the Education Act 1997. 
Pupils in all years are entitled to find out about apprenticeships, technical qualifications and to hear from a range of local providers about their opportunities, pathways and application processes. School provides a number of careers events throughout the year which providers can get involved with including assemblies, careers talks and speed networking events. Paper copies and prospectuses can also be displayed in the Careers Room and Library. 
A provider wishing to request access should contact Rebecca Cuthbert, Head of Careers via careers@kes.org.uk.

For further information about the KES careers programme, please contact:

Mrs Cuthbert
Head of Careers
careers@kes.org.uk

0121 472 1834 (ext. 2017)

Where next?

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