Preparing students for the future

The outstanding Careers programme at Reed’s School truly sets them apart

At Reed’s School in Cobham one of their Core Aims is ‘to prepare students for the future’. This is clearly demonstrated in the way that they support their students to realise their professional ambitions - ensuring that each one has a clear pathway with bespoke guidance specific to their interests and academic leanings.

Their ‘FutureCareers Programme’ provides numerous avenues that give them opportunities to explore a wide variety of career options. These events include a biennial FutureCareers Fair; FutureUni Seminars on subjects like Geography, Classics and Philosophy, as well as FutureCareers Seminars with guest speakers from specific career areas, such as law, medicine, A.I. and the environment, drawn from the extensive Reed’s community.

The Reed’s FutureCareers programme is also open to local Secondary Schools as part of the school’s comprehensive Outreach Programme.

A platform called Unifrog is used by all students from Year 9 onwards. This brings all the available information into one single, impartial, user-friendly platform to help them make the best choices. It works in conjunction with bespoke oneto-one careers guidance through individual interviews with leading external careers advisers and a strong team of tutors, guided by the Director of Higher Education and Careers.

A new Employability Programme, introduced for Year 11, involves significant contribution from a network of former students, parents and external partners. This provides students with opportunities to learn from employers and experience aspects of what it will be like in the workplace.

Sixth Form students attend presentations and workshops covering topics like UK, US and international university applications, Oxbridge applications, apprenticeship opportunities and personal statement workshops. Interview practice for Oxbridge applicants is provided by former pupils, staff, and an exchange system with another school. There is a rigorous approach to checking university applications with assistance also offered for Student Finance applications.

To support student and parent presentation evenings, an extensive Higher Education Guide is sent out to all parents and students – an excellent reference to navigate through what can seem a daunting decision-making process. A half-term Newsletter also provides advice for all year groups.

After leaving Reed’s, students continue to access the same level of support for university and job applications. The Careers Programme at Reed’s, which fully embeds their ethos of building a community for life, and the dedicated involvement from staff, parents and former students in delivering an outstanding programme, truly sets it apart.

SARAH BUTLER, Director of Higher Education and Careers at Reed’s School

CONTACT: www.reeds.surrey.sch.uk