Abbey Grange Church of England School has been awarded the Quality in Careers Standard for its exceptional careers education, information, advice, and guidance(CEIAG) provision. This recognition reflects the school's commitment to helping its students navigate their future careers and make informed decisions about their educational pathways.
With a strong focus on aspiration, benevolence, belief, excellence, and youth leadership, Abbey Grange's careers programme has evolved significantly over the past three years. The school has developed a robust, strategic, and student-centred approach, linking careers education seamlessly with the wider school development priorities.
Peter Golding, Assistant Principal and SLT careers link, emphasised the importance of strategic planning in the school's careers programme: "Careers education is not just a separate entity at Abbey Grange. It is embedded in the whole school ethos, supported by strong leadership, and backed by clear, actionable goals."
The Quality in Careers Standard’s report stated that the programme at Abbey Grange is well-structured, progressive, and accessible. It includes a range of engaging activities such as PSHE lessons, enrichment afternoons, assemblies, and tutor time. The school ensures that careers education is tailored to meet the needs of each student, with support for those in need, such as SEND and Pupil Premium learners. The school regularly hosts careers fairs, employer talks, and mock interviews, offering students valuable real-world insights. Students have access to a wide array of employers, including those from sectors such as finance, law, science, engineering, and healthcare.
Emma Landau, the school’s Careers and Enrichment Coordinator, said, "We are proud of the relationships we have cultivated with employers, universities, and external agencies. These partnerships are key to providing our students with meaningful experiences and opportunities to explore different career options."
The school’s strong alumni network also plays a significant role, supporting activities such as the careers fair and mentoring schemes. The school even partners with high-profile organisations like AECOM, the RAF, and McCann Media, creating valuable connections for students to explore a wide range of careers. The careers programme at Abbey Grange is noted for its tailored support, ensuring that each student is guided towards the best possible future pathway. With a high percentage of students progressing to top universities, Abbey Grange’s emphasis on supporting individual aspirations has been highly successful. The school also actively promotes vocational and apprenticeship pathways, ensuring students are fully aware of all their options after Key Stage 4 and 5.
Student Feedback reflects the effectiveness of this approach, with one Year 12 student commenting, "The careers support here is fantastic. They really focus on us as individuals, helping us explore options we hadn’t thought about before."
Abbey Grange’s careers programme goes beyond academic pathways, focusing on developing vital life skills and preparing students for the world of work. Praised by the Quality in Careers Standard assessors for its strong leadership, tailored support, and extensive employer and university partnerships, the school sets a clear benchmark in careers education. Abbey Grange ensures every student is equipped with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to thrive in their future careers.
