Castlewood School
Reviewed: September 2026
Next Review Due: September 2027
1. Introduction
At Castlewood school we recognise the importance of providing all pupils with access to comprehensive careers education, information, advice, and guidance (CEIAG) to support their aspirations and future success. Our careers provision aligns with the statutory requirements set out in the Gatsby Benchmarks and the Department for Education’s careers strategy.
2. Aims
Our Careers Programme Policy aims to empower pupils to take control of their lives and make informed choices about their future. We will implement a structured progressive programme that complements the curriculum and provides pupils with opportunities to develop key skills, knowledge and attitudes required for their future careers and life. By doing so, we will ensure that pupils leave Castlewood School with the confidence, skills and opportunities to achieve their full potential in whatever pathway they choose to take.
3. Objectives
- To complement the curriculum by providing opportunities for pupils to develop the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes required for their future careers and life.
- To provide a structured progressive programme in accordance with the Career Development Institute’s Framework.
- To support pupils in growing their self-confidence, self-belief, and independence so they have choices and opportunities when they leave Castlewood School.
4. Commitment to Gatsby Benchmarks
We are committed to meeting the Gatsby Benchmarks to ensure excellence in careers education:
- A stable careers programme.
- Learning from career and labour market information.
- Addressing the needs of each pupil.
- Linking curriculum learning to careers.
- Encounters with employers and employees.
- Experiences of workplaces.
- Encounters with further and higher education.
- Personal guidance.
5. Delivery and Provision
Our careers programme is delivered through a range of activities, including:
- Careers lessons integrated into the curriculum.
- One-to-one guidance sessions with a qualified careers advisor.
- Work experience opportunities.
- Employer visits and guest speakers.
- Careers fairs and university visits.
- Online careers platforms and resources.
- Volunteering opportunities
6. Impact
- Pupils will have a greater understanding of their own strengths, interests, and values which will help them to make informed decisions about their future education and career choices.
- Pupils will have developed key employability skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and time management, which will make them more attractive to potential employers.
- Pupils will have a greater awareness of the range of career opportunities available to them, including those that they may not have previously considered.
- Pupils will be more confident in their ability to make informed choices about their future, which will support their personal development and well-being.
7. Responsibilities
- Senior Leadership Team: Oversees and supports careers education delivery.
- Careers Facilitator: Manages and coordinates the careers programme, ensuring compliance with statutory guidance.
- Teachers: Embed career-related learning within the curriculum and encourage aspirations.
- External Partners: Work with employers, universities, and training providers to enhance provision.
- Parents and Guardians: Support pupils in exploring career options.
8. Monitoring and Evaluation
We regularly evaluate our careers provision through:
- Pupil feedback and destination data.
- Engagement levels with careers activities.
- Reviews of external partnerships and employer engagement.
- Updates in response to changes in government careers guidance.
9. Equal Opportunities
We are committed to ensuring that all pupils, regardless of background, ability, or additional needs, receive equitable access to careers education and opportunities.
10. Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains aligned with national guidance and meets the evolving needs of our pupils.