Year 10-11

Your Key Stage 4 years are an important stage in your careers journey. As you work towards your GCSEs, you will begin to explore your future options in more detail and prepare for life after Year 11.

During Years 10 and 11, you will:

• explore different career pathways and opportunities

• understand how your GCSE subjects link to future options

• develop employability skills

• gain experience of the world of work

• research and make informed decisions about your next steps

There is no single pathway that is right for everyone. Whether you are considering sixth form, college, an apprenticeship, training or employment, the Careers Team is here to support you.

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Year 10: 

Year 10 is your chance to start looking ahead and understanding the opportunities available after GCSEs.

You should start thinking about:

Understanding yourself

• What subjects do you enjoy and why?
• What skills and strengths are you developing?
• What types of careers or industries interest you?

Exploring pathways

Begin researching:

• sixth form and A-level options;
• college courses;
• apprenticeships;
• vocational qualifications;
• careers linked to your interests.

Remember to keep your options open and explore a range of possibilities.

Developing your employability skills

Employers value more than qualifications. Start building skills such as:

• communication;
• teamwork;
• problem solving;
• independence;
• organisation;
• resilience.

Gaining experience

Look for opportunities to develop your understanding of the world of work through:

• work experience;
• employer events;
• workplace visits;
• volunteering;
• part-time jobs;
• extracurricular activities.

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Year 11: 

Year 11 is the time to turn your research into action and make decisions about your future after GCSEs.

You should start thinking about:

Choosing your pathway

Research and compare your options:

Sixth Form

• A-level subjects;
• entry requirements;
• university pathways;
• academic study.

College

• vocational courses;
• practical learning;
• industry-related qualifications.

Apprenticeships

• earning while learning;
• gaining workplace experience;
• developing professional skills.

Employment and Training

• entry-level opportunities;
• training programmes;
• career development routes.

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Preparing applications

You may need to complete:

• sixth form or college applications;
• apprenticeship applications;
• CVs and personal statements;
• interviews.

Making informed decisions

Before choosing your next step:

• research different options;
• check entry requirements;
• attend open days and events;
• speak to teachers, family and the Careers Team.