Trinity Church of England School
Secondary
Careers and Post 16
Preparing for life beyond Trinity
Helping pupils explore possibilities, understand their strengths and make confident choices about what comes next.
From choosing subjects to considering sixth form, college, apprenticeships or future careers, pupils make increasingly important decisions as they move through Secondary school.
At Trinity, careers education helps pupils understand their interests, strengths and ambitions, explore different possibilities and connect what they are learning now with where it could take them in the future.
Because Trinity does not have a Sixth Form, impartial guidance is particularly important. Pupils are supported to consider a broad range of Post 16 routes and make informed choices about their next step.
Thinking ahead: pupils are encouraged to explore possibilities early, ask questions and take an active role in planning their future.
Careers guidance at Trinity
Careers education develops as pupils move through Secondary school.
Trinity has an onsite independent careers adviser who supports pupils through careers information, group sessions and individual guidance. Pupils receive group careers sessions in Year 8 and one to one careers sessions in Year 10.
Key Stage 3, exploring possibilities
During Key Stage 3, pupils begin exploring careers, skills and different pathways.
They are encouraged to think about what interests them, recognise their strengths and understand that there are many different routes into further study, training and employment.
Key Stage 4, making informed choices
During Key Stage 4, careers guidance becomes increasingly focused on the decisions pupils will make beyond Year 11.
Pupils consider Post 16 pathways, entry requirements, applications, work experience and how their current choices connect with their longer term ambitions.
Understanding strengths and ambitions
Good careers guidance is personal. There is no single pathway that is right for every pupil.
Pupils are encouraged to consider what they enjoy, what they are good at, what motivates them and the kind of future they might want to build.
Questions pupils are encouraged to explore
- What do I enjoy?
- What am I good at?
- What motivates me?
- Which subjects interest me?
- What kind of working environment might suit me?
- What qualifications or training might I need?
- What opportunities are available locally and nationally?
Year 10 work experience
Work experience gives pupils an opportunity to experience the world of work first hand.
In Year 10, pupils are encouraged and supported to find their own placement. Taking responsibility for this process helps pupils think carefully about their interests and begin making connections with employers and workplaces.
During their placement, pupils can develop practical skills including communication, organisation, teamwork, problem solving, confidence and independence. The experience also gives them an opportunity to reflect on what they enjoy and what they might want from their future working life.
Experience the workplace: Year 10 work experience helps pupils connect school with the world beyond it and develop skills in a real working environment.
Preparing for Post 16
As pupils approach the end of Year 11, we help them understand the different routes available and make choices that reflect their strengths, interests and future goals.
Post 16 pathways may include:
- sixth forms
- colleges
- apprenticeships
- A levels
- T Levels
- BTECs
- vocational courses
- Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 courses
- other training routes
Pupils are supported to understand the differences between these pathways and consider which options may suit them best.
Meeting colleges and providers
Hearing directly from Post 16 providers helps pupils understand the choices available beyond Trinity.
We invite a range of providers into school so that pupils can learn about different courses and pathways, compare opportunities and ask questions.
Families are also encouraged to attend open events at sixth forms, colleges and training providers. Visiting different settings can help pupils understand what each option offers before deciding where to apply.
From exploring to applying
Choosing a Post 16 destination involves more than deciding on a course. Pupils are supported to think carefully about the practical steps involved in moving on from Trinity.
Applications and next steps
Support may include:
- researching different pathways and providers
- attending open events
- understanding entry requirements
- preparing applications
- writing personal statements where required
- preparing for interviews
- considering travel, course structure and support
- making final decisions after offers are received
Families can support pupils by discussing options early, attending open events and helping them keep track of important deadlines.
Explore careers and the world of work
Pupils and families can use trusted careers resources to research jobs, sectors, qualifications, skills and future opportunities.
Employers and education providers
We welcome opportunities for pupils to learn from employers, colleges, training providers, apprenticeship providers and members of the wider community.
If you are an employer or provider who would like to contribute to careers education at Trinity, please contact the school office.
Contact us
For questions about careers, work experience or Post 16 guidance, please contact the school office and your enquiry will be directed to the appropriate member of staff.
Secondary Phase: Trinity Secondary, Taunton Road, Lee, London, SE12 8PD
Telephone: 020 8852 3191
Email: admin@trinity.lewisham.sch.uk
Explore more of Trinity Secondary
Trinity
Primary
Leahurst Road,
London,
SE13 5HZ
Secondary
Taunton Road, Lee,
London,
SE12 8PD