Careers Education and Guidance at Sheldon School is aimed at providing pupils and parents with occupational guidance and vocational advice, helping pupils to think what they want to do with their lives and the sort of people they wish to become. The co-ordinated provision is central to developing these aims but curriculum subject areas, tutors and Connexions at Lifetime Careers all make significant contributions. The school has very close links with Connexions at Lifetime Careers, who provide guidance interviews for pupils and specific lessons in the Careers Education programme in Year 11.
In Years 7 and 8, the curriculum provides pupils with experiences which contribute to a growing understanding of themselves and their strengths and limitations. It will also develop the skills associated with choice and decision making.
In Years 9, 10 and 11, specific Careers Education and Guidance is provided through time-tabled modules of careers education, through the school's curriculum and tutor group work. Tutors have an active and defined role in prompting thought, monitoring progress, identifying individual guidance needs and referring pupils to the Careers Adviser from Connexions at Lifetime Careers as necessary. All pupils undertake a week of work experience in Year 10.
Most students coming into Year 12 have fairly clear ideas about their future as a result of previous sound careers advice. This is enhanced by discussions with the Careers Adviser, work experience placements and information about Higher Education, including visits to universities and colleges.