C AREER S AND HIGHER EDUC ATION
We are fully committed to providing exceptional careers advice to our pupils throughout their time at Oakham and achieve this by delivering an in-house Careers Programme to support students in: • • •
C AREER S PRO GR A M ME PRO GRE SSION FORM 3 • Pupils complete the Morrisby Careers Profile to inform GCSE options.
Making well-informed decisions at key points of academic progression in Forms 3, 4 and 5 Developing the skills and professional awareness needed to navigate the world of work in the 21st century Applying for opportunities post-Oakham, including UK university applications, overseas study and apprenticeships.
FORM 4 • Full Morrisby Profiling, relating an individual’s aptitudes and learning styles to possible career aspirations.
The Careers Department is led by Dr Rachael Pearson, our full-time Head of Careers and Progression, who is a qualified careers advisor registered with the Careers Development Institute (CDI). In 2023 Rachael became a THE (Times Higher Education) Accredited Counsellor in recognition of her extensive careers’ knowledge and expertise. We are also fortunate to have a fulltime Careers and UCAS Co-ordinator and a dedicated Work Experience Officer, in addition to further co-ordinators for Oxbridge and Clinical applications. This allows Oakhamians access to a broad range of specialised advice from experienced staff, regardless of their career and study goals. We provide both internal and external support for students applying to study abroad; the School is also a SAT test centre, allowing students to take the admissions tests for US universities on site.
FORM 5 • One-to-one guidance interviews with a specially trained member of the Housebased pastoral staff; sessions on interview skills and producing a CV. •
Work experience placements.
FORM 6 • ‘After Oakham’ course where pupils research courses and careers, look at employment skills, applying to university, non-university destinations and Gap years.
Having a full-time Head of Careers means that we can ensure that our careers advice is up-to-date and relevant in today’s fast-changing job market and the constantly evolving world of university provision. This makes it easier for students to choose a career path that is right for them.
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Specialist support for Oxbridge applicants, clinical courses including Medicine, and preparation for American SAT tests.
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Work experience placements.
FORM 7 • Completing university applications, mock interviews (where appropriate). •
Help with university places post results.
BEYOND OAKHAM • Oakham’s Careers Department offers support with university applications for up to three years after pupils have left the School. •
The Oakhamian Connection alumni network, offers careers advice, introductions, mentoring, and support on numerous levels.
CAREERS EVENTS Annual Careers and HE Fair, a Science Guest Night, Careers Week, and University Day.
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