Our Careers Programme
Braidwood School offers a comprehensive and structured careers programme that begins in Key Stage 3 and continues through to Key Stage 4. Our KS3 ‘Future Focus’ curriculum is delivered through tutor time sessions (half hour lessons every week) and is designed to help pupils develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need for their future lives and careers.
Across Years 7 to 9, pupils explore a wide range of themes including identity, wellbeing, resilience, communication, teamwork and employability skills. Early learning focuses on self-awareness, emotional intelligence and personal development, helping pupils to understand their strengths and build confidence. As they progress, pupils begin to develop a stronger understanding of the world of work, including different job roles, key employability skills, and the importance of values such as teamwork, perseverance and responsibility.
In Year 9, pupils begin to focus more directly on future pathways. They explore career options in greater depth using tools such as the JED careers platform and the National Careers Service website. They also begin to consider GCSE options, develop decision-making skills and learn about how their choices link to future education and employment opportunities. This ensures they are well-prepared to make informed choices as they move into Key Stage 4 (See the link below for the KS3 Future Focus Curriculum).
In Key Stage 4, Careers education becomes more focused and practical through BTEC Workskills courses leading to recognised qualifications. Pupils develop essential employment skills such as CV writing, interview preparation, job applications and understanding workplace expectations. This ensures that all students are supported to take confident steps towards further education, training or employment when they leave school.
Alongside classroom learning, we provide an extensive programme of careers enrichment activities. This includes regular employer talks, visits from industry professionals, and opportunities to engage with a wide range of career sectors. Pupils also take part in carefully planned workplace visits and future-focused educational trips to help them experience different working environments first-hand and broaden their understanding of post-school options.
Work experience opportunities further enhance this provision, allowing pupils to gain valuable insight into the world of work, develop employability skills in real settings, and build confidence in professional environments.
Careers education is also embedded across the wider curriculum, with subject areas actively making links to careers and future pathways within lessons. This ensures that pupils can see the relevance of their learning and understand how different subjects connect to real-world opportunities.
Together, this comprehensive programme ensures that all pupils are well-informed, aspirational, and fully prepared for their next steps beyond Braidwood School.