Careers Education
“Teenagers taught about the world of work are more motivated to get higher GCSE results, say researchers.
A careers charity study found pupils who heard directly from employers about the realities of getting a job went on to get better grades.
It also seemed to provide the incentive for increased revision.” (Sean Coughlin, BBC News report May 2019)
Young people’s time in Ballyclare High School is a transitional stage from childhood into the world of work, usually via further or higher education. Recognising that this is both an exciting and a daunting experience for young people, the School places a high importance on supporting them through every step of their career journey, whether that should take them to university or an apprenticeship.
- Year 8 and 9 pupils are given a gentle introduction to a variety of careers and the skills and qualities required in the workplace.
- In years 10, 12, 13 and 14, weekly careers programmes, careers guidance interviews and experiences of the world of work support subject choices and career and Higher Education decision-making.
- Pupils are prepared for the world of work in terms of employers’ expectations, interview skills, CVs and application forms.
- The annual Ballyclare Learning Community Careers Convention brings employers , professionals, colleges and universities from across the British Isles to Ballyclare.
Recognising that these career decisions can be stressful for parents too, the School provides information evenings for parents, in association with universities from across the British Isles. The implications of subject choices made at school are considered in the light of the most up-to-date labour market information.
Facilities
Dedicated careers room incorporating careers library. Office for one-to-one careers guidance interviews and Head of Careers administration.
Staff
4 experienced careers teachers.
Every teacher in Ballyclare High School is a teacher of careers. As a result, pupils are well informed about career pathways from each of the subjects which they study in school and about the specific and transferable skills they are developing.
Parents
Recognising that these career decisions can be stressful for parents too, the School provides information evenings for parents, in association with universities from across the British Isles. The implications of subject choices made at school are considered in the light of the most up-to-date labour market information.
Annual events for parents include:
- UCAS information evening in early September for Year 14 parents.
- Introduction to Higher Education and work experience for Year 13 parents in early September.
- Ballyclare Learning Community Careers Convention for Years 10, 12 & 13 parents and pupils in late January/early February.
- Information evening on choosing A level subjects for Year 12 parents and pupils in February.
- Information evening on choosing GCSE subjects for Year 10 parents and pupils in February.
Parental Evaluation
“ I think it is great that the school organises interview nights and also tailors them to the career paths that individual pupils are aiming to take. Being able to cope well in an interview situation is a key life skill and getting feedback has been really useful. The pupils probably don’t realise how fortunate they are to have this experience which is not always available in other schools to Year 14 pupils.” (Year 14 parent)
