At Southend YMCA Community School we are passionate about helping our students prepare for their future. Our careers programme gives young people the information, advice and experiences they need to make confident choices about life after school.
We follow the Gatsby Benchmarks of Good Career Guidance, which are recognised nationally as the standard for high-quality careers education. These benchmarks help us make sure that our students receive the best possible support and opportunities. Our careers programme is regularly reviewed using the Compass Careers Benchmark Tool to help us identify what we are doing well and where we can continue to improve.
The Eight Gatsby Benchmarks
- A stable careers programme
- Learning from career and labour market information
- Addressing the needs of each pupil
- Linking curriculum learning to careers
- Encounters with employers and employees
- Experiences of workplaces
- Encounters with further and higher education
- Personal guidance
Our aim is to help every student reach their full potential by providing the knowledge, skills and support they need to make informed decisions about their next steps.
Through the curriculum and work-related learning opportunities, we encourage students to think about their future careers and develop the skills they will need in the workplace.
Students receive support with:
- Writing a CV
- Completing application forms
- Preparing for interviews
Students also have opportunities to meet local employers, complete work experience placements and hear from guest speakers. In line with Provider Access Legislation, students will also meet representatives from local colleges and training providers, helping them learn about the wide range of opportunities available after school.
By offering a broad range of careers activities and personalised support, we aim to ensure that every student leaves Southend YMCA Community School feeling informed, prepared and excited about their future.