Leweston recognises the importance of providing individualised support and guidance to Sixth Formers, enabling them to make considered and informed choices about their future. Extensive help is available from the tutor team, Head of Sixth Form and Careers Adviser.
A comprehensive programme of careers education begins at the start of Year 12, when students are given advice on post-Sixth Form options including university, employment, degree apprenticeships and taking a gap year. This is supplemented by further support and information from a degree apprenticeship representative, a Russell Group university speaker and a current undergraduate. Year 12 are also offered the opportunity to visit a Russell Group University.
Year 12 students complete a personal SWOT analysis which forms the basis of their career development plan. During one-to-one interviews with the Careers Adviser, Mrs Hutton, individual students are given support to find work experience, organise university open day visits and begin preparing for their UCAS/degree apprenticeship application. This is followed by a dedicated Futures Directions Day when students receive extensive help and guidance as they begin the UCAS application process.
Year 12 attend a special LEaD day during the Summer Term when they can experience a ‘Multiple Mini Interviews’ (MMI) type assessment, including team-based challenges. This is good practice for the variety of assessment methods used when applying for graduate jobs.
Students produce a first draft of their UCAS application for the start of Year 13, when tutors, subject teachers and the Careers Adviser work with the students to hone and perfect their personal statement. This ensures that applications are ready for the early deadline for medical, dentistry, veterinary and Oxbridge applications. However, it is beneficial to send all applications to UCAS early in the Autumn term, particularly for competitive courses as places are allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Where relevant, mock interviews are organised, often using the extensive network of Old Antonians (Leweston alumni). Oxbridge candidates are registered for additional external exams which take place at the beginning of November. Read about The Leweston Oxbridge Programme here. Once students have received their offers the Careers Adviser then helps students select a first choice and an insurance choice. Extensive help is given to art students collating their art portfolio for the creative courses.
Later in Year 13, students are given advice on how to ensure their university experience is successful, fulfilling and rewarding. A presentation on student finance gives information on how and when to apply for funding. Additionally, students are shown how to use LinkedIn to develop their professional network once they have commenced university. Year 13 students who want to go straight into employment are given support finalising their CV, completing job applications, and attending interviews.
On A Level results day, the Careers Adviser and Head of Sixth Form are available to assist any students who have not achieved their predicted grades and may need help with the UCAS clearing system.
