Key Stages:
- Years 5 & 6 (KS2) – Exploring the World of Work
- Years 7 & 8 (KS3) – Understanding Your Strengths & Interests
- Years 9-11 (KS4 & KS5) – Planning Your Future
Learning Objectives:
- Identify different types of jobs and workplaces.
- Understand the importance of education, training, and qualifications.
- Develop self-awareness of their strengths, interests, and values.
- Research specific career paths and their requirements.
- Build essential employability skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Explore different post-16 options (GCSEs, BTECs, apprenticeships, etc.)
Teaching Strategies:
- Interactive activities like role-playing, quizzes, and career fairs.
- Guest speakers from various professions.
- Research projects and presentations.
- Visits to workplaces or career centers.
- Online resources and career exploration tools.
- Psychometric assessments to identify interests and aptitudes (Years 8+).
Year Breakdown:
Years 5 & 6 (KS2):
- Theme: Exploring the World of Work
- Activities:
- Interview family members about their jobs.
- Research different workplaces (e.g., hospitals, factories, shops).
- Create a “dream job” collage with required skills.
- Play career bingo with various job descriptions.
- Role-play different job scenarios.
Years 7 & 8 (KS3):
- Theme: Understanding Your Strengths & Interests
- Activities:
- Complete personality and skills quizzes.
- Research career clusters based on interests (e.g., STEM, arts, business).
- Interview professionals in their areas of interest.
- Debate the importance of different skills for various careers.
- Create a personal development plan focusing on strengths and weaknesses.
Years 9-11 (KS4 & KS5):
- Theme: Planning Your Future
- Activities:
- Research specific career paths and entry requirements.
- Compare different post-16 options (GCSEs, BTECs, apprenticeships).
- Develop a CV and cover letter writing skills.
- Practice interview techniques through mock interviews.
- Research higher education options (universities, colleges).
- Attend careers fairs and university open days.
- Create a career action plan outlining future goals.
Assessment:
- Participation in class activities and discussions.
- Research project presentations and written reports.
- Psychometric assessments (optional).
- Drafts and final versions of CVs and cover letters.
- Performance in mock interviews.
Resources:
Differentiation:
Adapt activities to cater to different learning styles and abilities. Provide additional support for students with SEND needs.
Remember:
This is a flexible framework. Adapt it to fit your school’s needs and student demographics. Regularly review and update the scheme of work to reflect current career trends and educational pathways.
