A. Moseley School welcomes employer input into the curriculum and enrichment days as this inspires our students and helps them to learn about the world of work.

There are many opportunities to get involved, including: 

• Providing inspirational careers talks.
• Participating in Year 9 employer speed dating.
• Running workshops e.g. employability skills, CVs, mock interviews.
• Offering work experience/work shadowing opportunities.
• Running business challenges and enterprise competitions.
• Mentoring students.
• Promoting STEM careers.

For further information contact the school’s Careers Leader Mr Barry Silgram.

Mr Silgram can be contacted by telephone on 0121 566 6444, extension 27035, or by email: sil@moseley.bham.sch.uk

Introduction:

This policy statement sets out the school’s arrangements for managing the access of providers to the school for the purpose of giving them information about the provider’s education or training offer. This complies with the school’s legal obligations under Section 42B of the Education Act 1997.

Student entitlement:

All students in Years 8 to 13 are entitled:

• To find out about technical education qualifications and apprenticeships opportunities, as part of a careers programme which provides information on the full range of education and training options available at each transition point.
• To hear from a range of local providers about the opportunities they offer, including technical education and apprenticeships – through options events, assemblies and group discussions and taster
• To understand how to make applications for the full range of academic and technical

For students of compulsory school age these encounters are mandatory and there will be a minimum of two encounters for students during the ‘first key phase’ (Year 8 to 9) and two encounters for students during the ‘second key phase’ (Year 10 to 11). For pupils in the ‘third key phase’ (Year 12 to 13), particularly those that have not yet decided on their next steps, there are two more provider encounters available during this period, which are optional for students to attend.

These provider encounters will be scheduled during the main school hours and the provider will be given a reasonable amount of time to, as a minimum:

• Share information about both the provider and the approved technical education qualification and apprenticeships that the provider
• Explain what career routes those options could lead
• Provide insights into what it might be like to learn or train with that provider (including the opportunity to meet staff and students from the provider).
• Answer questions from students.

Meaningful provider encounters:

One encounter is defined as one meeting/session between students and one provider. We are committed to providing meaningful encounters to all pupils using the Making it meaningful checklist.

Meaningful online engagement is also an option, and we are open to providers that are able to provide live online engagement with our students.

Previous providers:

For example, in previous terms/years we have invited the following providers from the local area to speak to our students:

• Colleges of further education.
• Apprentices and employers linked to a college of further education.
• Sixth form colleges.
• Independent training providers.
• Universities.
• The ASK Programme and apprentices.
• Employers and their apprentices.

Destinations of our students:

Last year our Year 11 and Year 13 students moved to range of providers in the local area after school.

A detailed summary of Year 11 and Year 13 student destinations can be found on the school website at Students > Careers Advice and Guidance > Career Programme and Destinations > What are the destinations of Year 13 and Year 11 students.

For example, in 2022, the 5 most popular university destinations for Year 13 students were:

1. Birmingham City University.
2. Wolverhampton University.
3. Aston University.
4. Birmingham University.
5. Coventry University.

The 5 most popular university course types were:

1. Health/medical.
2. Science
3. Computing
4. Engineering
5. Business/finance.

For example, in 2022, the 5 most education destinations for Year 11 students were:

1. Moseley School and Sixth Form.
2. South and City College.
3. Solihull College.
4. Joseph Chamberlain College.
5. Joint 5th: BMET and Solihull 6th Form College.

Management of provider access requests:

Procedure:

A provider wishing to request access should contact Simon Edwards, Deputy Headteacher for Curriculum and Assessment, by email at eds@moseley.bham.sch.uk or Barry Silgram, the school’s Careers Leader, by email at sil@moseley.bham.sch.uk

Opportunities for access:

The school offers providers an opportunity to come into school to speak to students or their parents/carers. The school meets (or exceeds) the six provider encounters required by law, as outlined in the points below:

Year 8/Year 9

• Spring term: A technical/vocational awareness assembly presentation from a local further education college (linked to the Year 8 Pathways options process).
• Spring term: Year 8 “mathss4girls” event, with employer/alumni speakers.
• Summer term: Year 9 employer “speed dating” with a range of employers/apprentices.
• Summer term: Year 9 presentation from a local university, to raise awareness and aspirations.

Year 10/Year 11

• Summer term: Year 10 Careers Day includes interactive presentations from 4 local further education/sixth form colleges and sessions from the ASK Programme and apprentices to raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities.
• Spring term: Year 11 apprenticeship presentation form a local further education college, supported by one of the employers they work with and their apprentices.

Year 12/Year 13

• Summer term: Year 12 visit to a university.
• Summer term: Year 12 visit to the UCAS Convention at the NEC (includes universities and employers offering apprenticeships).
• Autumn term: Year 13 presentation from the ASK Programme on apprenticeships, including higher/degree apprenticeships.
• Spring term: Year 13 students have the opportunity to attend the Birmingham University & Apprenticeship Fair at the Edgbaston Cricket Stadium.

Other opportunities to get involved in the careers programme are also available. The events are usually arranged well in advance, so it is essential that providers contact us early to be involved in our planning. Examples of events and activities are:

• Employer speed dating.
• Inspirational careers talks.
• Apprenticeship presentations.
• University presentations.
• Further education college presentations.
• Attending parent/open evenings.
• National Careers Week.
• Curriculum support.
• Supporting careers and enrichment days.

Providers will be expected to meet the school’s safeguarding requirements. Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all its students. Attendance at school events is on the understanding that you agree to abide by our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.

Premises and facilities

The school will make the main hall, classrooms or meeting rooms available for discussions between the provider and students, as appropriate to the activity. The school will also make available AV and other specialist equipment to support provider presentations. This will all be discussed and agreed in advance of the visit with the Deputy Headteacher for Curriculum and Assessment or the Careers Leader.

Providers are welcome to leave a copy of their prospectus or other relevant course literature at Reception and this information will be displayed in the careers section of the LRC and/or in the careers section of the sixth form library. The LRC is available before school, lunchtimes and after school. The sixth form library is available to sixth formers throughout the school day.

Complaints:

Any complaints with regards to provider access can be raised following the school complaints procedure or directly with The Careers & Enterprise Company via provideraccess@careersandenterprise.co.uk

A. Moseley students are entitled to careers support that meets the government’s statutory duty, published in April 2014 (and updated in January 2018) to ensure that all pupils in Years 8 to 13 are provided with impartial and independent careers guidance.

The September 2021 Ofsted report highlighted the following:

• “Careers education is comprehensive. Pupils have the right information to help them make informed choices about their next steps.”
• “The sixth form is flourishing. Staff guide students onto appropriate courses and then support them well so that they can achieve. They encourage students to look beyond the academic courses, and to participate in a range of activities, which they do. They have ample opportunity to have meaningful encounters with the world of work. They are prepared well for their next steps in education, employment or training.”

The vision and mission of Moseley School is to produce a planned programme of careers activities to help learners at key transition points choose 13-19 pathways that are right for them.

Careers support will follow best practice from the careers profession and be delivered by trained staff, be person-centred, impartial, raise aspirations, challenge stereotyping and promote equality and diversity.

The careers programme is designed to meet the needs of all learners at Moseley School. Activities are differentiated and personalised to ensure progression in their career learning and development and to strengthen their motivation, aspirations and attainment at school.

Moseley School is committed to providing extra support as required for learners with additional needs and works in partnership with other agencies and partners.

The careers programme benefits from links made with external partners, such as employers, universities, voluntary organisations, training providers, colleges and other schools.

The careers programme is delivered through a range of activities, including:

• 1:1 careers guidance from a qualified and professionally registered careers adviser.
• Provision of high quality careers information.
• Careers and PSHE lessons.
• BTEC courses.
• Curriculum activities.
• Assemblies
• Parent evenings.
• Enrichment events and activities.
• External events, careers conferences, open days and masterclasses.
• Sixth form tutorials.
• Work related learning, including work experience.

A. The programme focuses on different topics for each key stage/year group and this is reviewed on a yearly basis.

The Careers Programme, Calendar and Development Plan is reviewed and updated annually. Here is a summary of typically planned activities.

Year 7:

• Personal development programme: STEPS booklet from Optimus Education Resources (formerly Prospects).
• Moseley School as a workplace: Students learn about the wide range of jobs available at Moseley School, including meeting 4 staff and then researching another Moseley School job and a job of their own choice.
• National Careers Week: To raise awareness about the wide range of careers linked to different curriculum subjects.

 Year 8: 

• Personal development programme: STEPS booklet from Optimus Education Resources (formerly Prospects).
• Year 8 Pathways Evening: Gives parents/students full details of subject options available.
• Maths4girls event: To encourage more students to study maths in the future, especially female students. Involves meeting a number of inspirational business leaders who ‘tell a story’ about their career journey to raise the importance of maths for careers and to inspire our students.
• National Careers Week: To raise awareness about careers linked to different curriculum subjects.

 Year 9: 

• Personal development programme: STEPS booklet from Optimus Education Resources (formerly Prospects).
• Year 9 Careers Day: Aims to inspire and to raise aspirations and broaden horizons. Includes “speed-dating” with a wide range of employers; a presentation from a local university about the benefits of going to university; using a careers computer program to get new career ideas and a look at local job trends in Birmingham/West Midlands.
• National Careers Week: To raise awareness about the wide range of careers linked to different curriculum subjects and to university/apprenticeship pathways.

 Year 10:

• Personal development programme: STEPS booklet from Optimus Education Resources (formerly Prospects).
• Year 10 work experience: To develop skills and experience to support future post-16 decisions and career plans.
• Year 10 Careers Day: Students have meaningful encounters with local colleges and an apprenticeship workshop from ASK. Also includes interview skills, action planning and an opportunity to start to research post-16 opportunities.
• National Careers Week: To raise awareness about the wide range of careers linked to different curriculum subjects and to university/apprenticeship pathways.

 Year 11: 

• Personal development programme: STEPS booklet from Optimus Education Resources (formerly Prospects).
• Careers adviser talks: On post-16 options.
• 1:1 careers guidance interviews and small group guidance interviews: With the school’s impartial careers adviser Mr Silgram, who is a registered member of the Career Development Institute. Available for all Year 11 students, with priority given to specific groups, such as students who are vulnerable, SEN, EAL, unrealistic and undecided. 
• Employer/apprenticeship presentations: To raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities.
• Year 11 parent/carer newsletter: Designed to help parents/carers understand the options available so that they can support their daughter or son with their choice and to raise awareness of the support available in school and useful careers information on the school website.

 Year 12: 

• Mentoring and development opportunities: Examples include The Access Project; Aimhigher (Aston University); Realising Opportunities; Routes to Professions (Birmingham University); Aston University Summer School, The Challenge (NCS); the Peter Jones Business Tycoon and the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
• Talks from employers: To raise awareness of careers and apprenticeship opportunities.
• Post-18 options presentations from the school’s careers adviser: To raise awareness of all the pathways available.
• Local university presentations: To raise awareness of the UCAS process; student life, to give course “tasters” and insights into specific courses/careers (e.g. teaching) and to help students prepare for the UCAS Convention and university open days.
• Year 12 parent/carer newsletter: Designed to help parents/carers understand the options available so that they can support their daughter or son with their choice and to raise awareness of the support available in school and useful careers information on the school website.
• 1:1 careers interviews: With the school’s impartial careers adviser Mr Silgram, who is a registered member of the Career Development Institute. Available for all Year 12 students.  
• UCAS Day: To help students start planning what to study at university and where to study.
• Visit to the UCAS Convention: To meet universities and to explore courses available and entry requirements.
• Visit to a university: To give students an insight into university life.
• Work experience week: To develop skills and experience to enhance university and apprenticeship applications.
• Virtual work experience: Opportunities promoted direct to students.
• ASK apprenticeship workshop: To raise awareness of apprenticeships, including higher and degree apprenticeships.

 Year 13:

• University personal statements: Support in lessons to write an effective university personal statement.
• University talks: Includes raising awareness of student finance.
• Talks from employers: To raise awareness of careers and apprenticeship opportunities.
• ASK apprenticeship workshop: To help interested students search and apply for apprenticeships.
• Apprenticeship event: For students who wish to explore apprenticeship options.
• 1:1 careers interviews: Available by request with the school’s impartial careers adviser, Mr Silgram.  

 Years 7 – 13:

• Careers Club: Opportunity for any student to get careers information, advice and guidance. 
• Careers information: The school buys two careers programs (eCLIPS and Kudos) to help students explore and develop their career ideas. The careers section of the school website has 13 sections of information to help students make informed decisions about their future choices and to help parents/carers to assist their daughter/son with their options. There is also careers information, books and prospectuses in the LRC and sixth form library. 

 Years 11 – 13:

• GCSE and A level results days: The school’s careers adviser attends to offer information, advice and guidance; plus the sixth form team and other staff are available to offer support.
• Destinations/tracking: The school tracks the intended destination of students (via the school House system) to ensure they have a positive destination and returns the “September Guarantee” information to the local authority. In August/September all Year 11-13 students are followed up to check their destination and to offer support as appropriate. Additionally, a Year 11-13 destinations report is written and destinations data is returned to the local authority. Students at risk of becoming NEET are also referred to Birmingham Careers Service for follow-up and support.

 Years 10 – 13:

• PPE parent evenings: The school’s careers adviser attends to offer information, advice and guidance.

Years 8 – 13:

• Other opportunities: Some students take part in other personal development opportunities, such as The Access Project (includes mentoring and visits to universities); Unifest university summer schools; Forward Thinking (targeted at gifted and talented students who have little or no knowledge of higher education); attending the Skills Show at the NEC and subject based workshops and events (such as the Deloitte Business in the Classroom Project; engineering workshops/talks and National Science Week).
• Information about opportunities: This is distributed to students (and staff) via emails/tutor notices to help them with their future plans e.g. apprenticeship vacancies, work experience opportunities, events, open days, useful websites and careers events.
• Programme evaluation: To review and inform the programme development, feedback about activities and the programme is obtained from students, parents/carers, employers and school staff.

December 2021 analysis of data from Birmingham Local Authority, Moseley School destination reports and the DfE school performance data held on the gov.uk website, conveyed the following information.

• Moseley School students are more likely to remain in education (both FE and HE) after Year 11 and after sixth form (when compared to the LA and England).
• Fewer Moseley School students start an apprenticeship (compared with the LA and England).
• The Year 11 combined NEET/Not Known percentages for Moseley School students is below the overall combined LA NEET/Not Known figures.
• The Moseley School DfE not sustained destinations for Year 11 students is the same as the LA (and slightly higher than England).
• The Moseley School DfE not sustained destinations for sixth form students is significantly below both the LA and England figures (this data was only included in the DfE 2019 information).
• The 2018 DfE data conveys that a higher number of disadvantaged sixth form students from Moseley School go on to study a degree (and also go to Russell Group universities), when compared to the LA and England.
• The sixth form progression score in 2018 was 30, which is defined as “well above average” (about 6% of schools achieve this).

2022 leavers:

 Year 13:

The 2022 destinations data was collected in September 2022.

At this stage, 85.4% of the cohort had achieved a place at university (68.8% in 2021).

Once again, most students chose to study in the midlands. In summary, 64 students (91.4%) chose to study in the midlands (86.8% in 2021 and 98.3% in 2020).

10 students (14.3%) were accepted by a Russell Group university (20.8% in 2021 and 15.3% in 2020).

The 5 most popular destinations were:

1. Birmingham City University.
2. Wolverhampton University.
3. Aston University.
4. Birmingham University.
5. Coventry University.

The 5 most popular course types were:

1. Health/medical.
2. Science
3. Computing
4. Engineering
5. Business/finance.

For example, further details for the most popular course type, health/medical, is as follows:

• Pharmacy (5)
• Nursing (3)
• Radiography (2)
• Medicine (1)
• Dentistry (1)
• Optometry (1)
• Chiropractic (1)
• Health and care (1)

7 students (8.5%) are taking a gap year.

3 students (3.7%) continued their further education studies, with one student re-sitting Year 13 at Moseley School.

1 student (1.2%) is working as a warehouse operative at DHL.

1 student (1.2%) was seeking an apprenticeship/job.

Year 11:

The 2022 destinations data was collected in September 2022.

97.9% remained in education in the UK (94% in 2021).

The top 5 most popular institutions are:

1. Moseley School and Sixth Form: (43.8% of the cohort. Up from 31.7% in 2021).
2. South and City College.
3. Solihull College.
4. Joseph Chamberlain College.
5. Joint 5^th: BMET and Solihull 6^th Form College.

152 students (63.3% of the whole cohort) started level 3 courses (62.3% in 2021).

124 students are studying A levels or A levels combined with BTECs/vocational subjects. 28 students are studying a BTEC extended diploma. The top 4 vocational areas chosen were:

1. ICT: (including 1 student who started a T Level in Digital Production Design and Development).
2. Engineering
3. Sport (including football and cricket courses).
4. Business

83 students (34.6% of the cohort) started level 2 or level 1 courses (31.3% in 2021).

 The top 5 vocational areas chosen were: 

1. Motor vehicle.
2. Business and health & social care.
3. Construction (course examples include electrical, bricklaying, plumbing, plastering and painting & decorating).
4. IT
5. Business

This includes 3 students who started a T Level transition course (engineering/electrical).

One student (0.4%) is at Crackerjack Training doing a childcare study programme as a stepping stone towards a childcare apprenticeship (no student started an apprenticeship in 2021).

1 student (0.4%) is working at Druckers Vienna Patisserie (0.8% were working in 2021).

The destination of 2 students (0.8%) is not known (0.8% in 2021). Not known means we have been unable to confirm information about their destination.

No student is known to be NEET (1.6% in 2021).

One student (0.4%) has moved abroad (2.8% in 2021).

A. You can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan. The loan is paid directly to your university or college. Full-time students can apply for up to £9,250 per year. Part-time students can apply for up to £6,935.

You have to pay it back, but only after you have finished your course. For students who started their degree in September 2023 or later, you pay back 9% of any income over £25,000. Check out the Government website for more details.

A. It helps to pay for your living costs while studying at university, such as accommodation, food, travel and clothes. The loan is paid directly into your bank account at the start of each term.

The amount you get depends on where you are living (you get more in London) and whether you are living at home. Some of the loan is available to all eligible students and part of it is means-tested, so this part is dependent on household income.

Further information is available on the government website 

For details of how much loan you can get, use the Student finance calculator 

You have to pay it back, but only after you have finished your course. For students who started their degree in September 2023 or later, you pay back 9% of any income over £25,000. Check out the Government website for more details.

You can also find useful information about student loans written by Martin Lewis on his MoneySavingExpert website. Includes loan myth-busting information and advice from Martin Lewis.

A. Extra money or support may be available. For example, if you have children, dependent adults or if you have a disability. Further details are available on the government website 

This link also explains that medical, social work and teacher training students can apply for the following:

• NHS bursaries if you’re studying certain medical, dentistry or healthcare courses.
• A grant to cover some travel expenses if you’re studying a medical, dentistry or healthcare course.
• Social work bursaries if you’re a social work student.
• Extra funding if you’re a teacher training student.

Many universities also offer extra money directly to students. These bursaries, scholarships and awards don’t have to be paid back. Each university has its own rules about who qualifies, how much you can get and how to apply. You get your bursary directly from your university or college.

A. You need to apply using the government website. You don’t need a confirmed place at a university to apply.

A. For the standard student package you can use the Student finance calculator 

A. Many offer financial support to their students through bursaries, awards and scholarships. Bursaries are linked to personal circumstances and often, household income. Awards can include fee waivers or cash. Scholarships can be linked to academic results or outstanding ability in an area, such as sport, music or art.

You should check university websites early and ask at open days for information on support available and how to apply.

A. You have to pay it back, but only after you have finished your course. For students who started their degree in September 2023 or later, you pay back 9% of any income over £25,000. Check out the Government website for more details.

A. No, it depends on factors such as your age and your nationality or residency status. Full details are on the government website 

A. Yes, check out the following:

• GOV.UK It gives an overview of finance available and enables you to apply for financial support.
• YouTube Student Finance England videos.
• MoneySavingExpert  Student loan myth-busting information and advice from Martin Lewis.

• National Careers Service: Their careers advisers can talk to you about your choices online or over the phone on 0800 100 900. Advisers are available from 8 am to 10 pm.
• Birmingham Careers Service: You can get help from them if you have left school, are aged 16 to 19 (up to 25 if you have a learning difficulty or disability) and are unemployed and looking for a college course, job, training or apprenticeship.

• Icould: Their videos include people talking about their own choices at 14 and their own personal career stories, covering a wide variety of jobs and sectors. It also has articles and information about your option choices.
• Careersbox  This is a free online library of careers related film, news and information. Provides online case studies that show real people doing real jobs and gives an insight into careers across all sectors.
• Kudos software program: If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor, Mr Silgram and the careers notice board near room AG01). You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password).
• eCLIPS program: Click login (top right) and enter the school password, which you will need to get from your form tutor, Mr Silgram or from the careers notice board near room AG01. To check out what careers you can do with a particular subject go to “Information & Advice”, choose “Education” and then choose the relevant subject leaflet (for example, art and design).
• BBC Bitesize: Use to check out where your favourite subjects could take you.
• UCAS – Explore Jobs
• HELOA: A higher education guide aimed at 13 to 16 year olds.

• Icould: Their videos include people talking about their own choices at 16 and their own personal career stories, covering a wide variety of jobs and sectors. It also has articles and information about your option choices.
• Raising the Participation Age: This government website explains that young people leaving Year 11 in must remain in learning until they are 18 years old.
• Apprenticeships website: Use to search and apply for vacancies.
• 16-19 Bursary Fund: This is aimed at students who need financial help so that they can stay in learning.
• Informed Choices: Russell Group universities guide that helps you explore how A level choices link to future degree options, particularly at Russell Group universities.

• Icould: Their videos include people talking about their own choices at 18 and their own personal career stories, covering a wide variety of jobs and sectors. It also has articles and information about your option choices.
• Prospects: A guide to taking a gap year.
• Apprenticeships: Includes information on the different types of apprenticeships available and has real apprenticeship and traineeship vacancies.
• Year in Industry: Paid employment with major UK companies in science, technology, engineering and manufacturing.
• UCAS website: Has useful information about degree apprenticeships.

• Apprenticeships: Includes information on the different types of apprenticeships available and has real apprenticeship and traineeship vacancies.
• National Minimum Wage.
• Rate my apprenticeship: Includes useful information and apprenticeship vacancies.
• Careermap: Search and apply for apprenticeships using a map.
• UCAS website: Has useful information about degree apprenticeships.
• Get my first job: includes apprenticeship and traineeship vacancies
• Amazing Apprenticeships
• Prospects: Has information about degree apprenticeships.

• Moseley School: Courses available in the sixth form.
• Access Creative College – Birmingham
• Aston University Engineering Academy 
• Birmingham Metropolitan College (includes Matthew Boulton)
• Birmingham Ormiston Academy 
• Cadbury College 
• Joseph Chamberlain College
• Solihull Sixth Form College 
• Solihull College
• South & City College
• University College Birmingham 
• Raising the Participation Age: This government website explains that young people leaving Year 11 must remain in learning until they are 18 years old.
• Informed Choices: Russell Group universities guide that helps you explore how A level choices link to future degree options, particularly at Russell Group universities.
• HELOA: A higher education guide aimed at 13 to 16 year olds.

• A. Where to look for jobs:
  • Yell.com: Use to find employers and employment agencies.
  • Job search sites, such as fish4jobs and Get my first job.
  • Universal jobmatch: This government site enables you to search and apply for full or part-time jobs.
  • E4S: Use to search for part-time jobs, holiday jobs, gap year jobs and school leaver vacancies.

  B. Self-employment:

  • The Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme: They can help you decide whether self-employment is right for you. It offers help to 18 to 30 year olds who are either unemployed or working less than 16 hours a week.
  • Government website: Advice about starting your own business.

  C. Volunteering:

  • Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC): Offers local volunteering opportunities.
  • National Citizen Service: is open to all 16 and 17-year-olds in England. It helps you build your skills for work and life, while you take on new challenges and meet new friends. Participants develop a social action project to deal with a local issue they’re passionate about, and spend 30 hours putting the project into action in their community.
  • Volunteering Matters: This was formerly called CSV (Community Service Volunteers) and they offer a range of volunteering opportunities.

  D. Labour market information:

  • LMI for all: Provides easy access to labour market information, including an indication if a particular job is increasing or declining in numbers.
  • Prospects: Graduate job sector information.
  • Nomis: Provides a labour market profile of an area (e.g. search for Birmingham). Includes data on population, employment, unemployment, qualifications, earnings, benefit claimants and businesses.
  • Career Companion: Independent and impartial gateway to careers information on the internet.

  E. The law:

  • Raising the Participation Age: This government website explains that young people leaving Year 11 must remain in learning until they are 18 years old.
  • Child employment law: Explains the law relating to the restrictions on children working.

  F. CVs:

  • There are several CV books available in the LRC and sixth form library that provide a guide to writing a CV.
  • Free CV template

• A. What and where to study, applications and year out:
  • UCAS: The key website. Search and apply for courses. Lots of other useful and helpful information e.g. choosing what to study, the applications process and student finance.
  • UCAS Conservatoires: Application process if you are applying for performing arts courses at conservatoires.
  • The UniGuide: Has an easy to use search facility.
  • PUSH: “Guide to UK universities, student life, gap years, open days, student finance and all things studentish”.
  • Apply to Uni: Has a range of advice and information e.g. applying, finance, personal statements and course finder.
  • Prospects: Guide to taking a gap year.
  • Independent Gap Advice: Useful advice about gap years.
  • HELOA: A higher education guide aimed at 13 to 16 year olds.
  • The Guardian: Links to league tables.
  • The Complete University Guide: Links to league tables.
  • UniTasterDays: This provides a directory of university events for school groups and individual students.
  • Informed Choices: Russell Group universities guide that helps you explore how A level choices link to future degree options, particularly at Russell Group universities.
  • Career Companion: Independent and impartial gateway to careers information on the internet.
  • Advancing Access ResourceDirectory: This guide contains links to extra material to help students to explore subjects they may be interested in studying at university. The material may also enable students to develop their personal statements or prepare for university interviews.
  • Gap year guide.

  B. Considering studying abroad?

  • A Star Future: Use to search for courses taught in English abroad.
  • The Student World: This gives guidance about where to study, why go abroad, the process and financial implications.
  • Eunicas: Enables UK and Irish students to apply to degree programmes, taught through English, in universities across Europe.
  • Fulbright Commission: Use to explore studying in the USA.
  • Study in the USA: Use to explore studying in the USA.
  • Study options: Use to explore studying in Australia and New Zealand.
  • StudyLink: Information and guidance about studying abroad.
  • Medical Doorway: Free advice to students aiming to study medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine in Europe.

  C. Graduate careers:

  • Prospects: Graduate careers website e.g. go to “Careers advice” and then “What can I do with my degree”.

  D. Alternative options to university:

  • Not going to uni: Advice and support on alternative options.

  E. Higher education books:

  A range of books are available in the sixth form library.

  F. Software programs purchased by the school:

  Program	Details
  Kudos	If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram). You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password).
  eCLIPS	Has printable leaflets on over 500 careers and lifestyle topics; plus leaflets covering choices, education options and work & training.   To log-on, click login (top right) and enter the school password (available from your form tutor, Mr Silgram and the careers notice board near room AG01).

   

• GOV.UK: Gives an overview of finance available and enables you to apply for financial support.
• Student finance calculator :
• YouTube: Student Finance England You Tube videos.
• MoneySavingExpert: Student loan myth-busting information and advice from Martin Lewis.
• Career Companion: Independent and impartial gateway to careers information on the internet.
• The Scholarship Hub: Search and apply for UK scholarships, grants or bursaries.

• eCLIPS: This has printable leaflets on over 500 careers and lifestyle topics; plus leaflets covering choices, education options and work & training. To log-on, click login (top right) and enter the school password (available from your form tutor, Mr Silgram and the careers notice board near room AG01). To check the entry requirements for a specific job, go to “Job Groups”, choose a job group and then select your chosen career.
• Kudos software program: If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram). You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password).
• National Careers Service Job Profiles: These provide detailed information about different careers, for example, what the job involves, salary details and entry requirements.
• Careersbox: This is a free online library of careers related film, news and information. Provides online case studies that show real people doing real jobs and gives an insight into careers across all sectors.
• Icould: Free online careers videos showing the career journeys taken by a wide range of people.
• BBC Bitesize: Use to check out where your favourite subjects could take you.
• Career Companion: Independent and impartial gateway to careers information on the internet.

• The Careers Writers Association: This website is aimed at parents and carers and includes information on the choices available to your daughter or son.
• Talking Futures: A toolkit to support parents to have careers conversations.

A. The official school leaving date is the last Friday of June of the school year in which they turn 16.

Also, did you know that the government has increased the age that students must continue in learning?

This means that Year 11 students must be in some form of learning until they are 18 years old.

This doesn’t mean they have to stay on their school or go to a college; they can choose from the following:

• Stay in full-time education. For example, at a college or school sixth form.
• Start an apprenticeship or traineeship.
• Spend 20 hours or more a week working (including family businesses) or volunteering, combined with part-time education/training.

For more information go to the government website.

A. Young people have a wide range of choices available to them and we have produced these web pages to support you to help your daughter or son to make an informed decision.

There are 13 sections that focus on key questions and answers and you will also find links to useful websites, videos and other sources of information and help.

Please click here to check out any the following 13 sections

• Need careers advice?
• Year 8 options
• Options after Year 11
• Post-18 options
• Apprenticeships and traineeships
• Further education
• Jobs and voluntary work
• University applications
• Student finance
• Career ideas
• Parents and carers
• Useful websites and information
• Careers entitlements

Additionally, The Careers Writers Association has developed a website aimed at parents and carers that you may find helpful.

Also, check out Talking Futures. This websites provides a toolkit to support parents to have careers conversations.

If you have any questions or wish to provide feedback on the school’s careers provision please contact the school’s Careers Leader, Mr Silgram.

Mr Silgram can be contacted by telephone on 0121 566 6444, extension 27035, or by email: sil@moseley.bham.sch.uk

A. Use the Kudos software program. If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram). You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password).

Then go to “MY FUTURE”. Answer a series of questions and Kudos will come up with a list of careers for you to consider.

Also, if you need 1:1 careers advice, see Mr Silgram, the school’s careers adviser. He can help you decide what to do in the future.

You can also use the National Careers Service Job Profiles – to check out careers. For example, choose a job category from those listed to explore related careers.

Additionally, check out BBC Bitesize. You can search by job sectors or see where your favourite subject can take you. 

A. Use eCLIPS. This has printable leaflets on over 500 careers and lifestyle topics; plus leaflets covering choices, education options and work & training. To check the entry requirements for a specific job, go to “Job Groups”, choose a job group and then select your chosen career.

The job groups are really useful for expanding your career ideas as they list a wide range of similar jobs for you to consider.

You can also use Kudos and the National Careers Service Job Profiles.

If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram). You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password).

Go to “EXPLORE CAREERS” to search for a specific career you want to check out.

A. There are over 37,000 courses and 370 higher education institutions, so research is the key to making an informed decision about what to study and where.

To help your research, the school has purchased a number of key books that are available in the sixth form library. Also, go to the section Useful websites to find lots of helpful websites to support your higher education research.

Use these 4 steps to ensure you make a good plan:

1. Develop course ideas (by the end of Year 12)

Brian Heap (see his book in the LRC called University Degree Course Offers) writes that deciding your degree on the basis of your current studies is a “reasonably safe option since you are already familiar with the subjects themselves and what they involve” and that for many occupations “the degree subject is often not as important as the degree itself”. A large number of graduate jobs are open to graduates of any degree discipline and specialist training for many careers starts once you have your degree.

Brian Heap also advises that the subjects you are currently studying are part of a much larger family and have similarities to degree subjects that you may not have considered. Pages 1 to 4 of his book list examples of degree courses linked to your current subjects. Also, pages 6 to 9 lists courses related to career areas.

Ask yourself these questions:

1. Do I have a specific career in mind and need to take a certain type of higher education course?
2. Which subject(s) am I interested in studying?
3. Am I interested in a combined or joint honours degree?
4. Do I want to live at home or away from home?

You could decide to:

• Continue with one of your present subjects.
• Combine two or more of your current subjects.
• Combine a subject that you are studying now with a new one.
• Take a completely new subject or subjects.
• Take a general vocational course linked to a broad occupational area, such as business studies, art and design or tourism & travel.
• Choose a course related to a specific job. You can use the Kudos computer program. If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram). You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password). Then go to “MY FUTURE”. Answer a series of questions and Kudos will come up with a list of careers for you to consider.

2. Research course ideas (by the end of Year 12)

3. Finalise course ideas (by beginning of Year 13)

For steps 2 and 3, check out university prospectuses, go to open days/conventions, contact admissions tutors, use the books available in the sixth form and useful websites.

In particular, research the following:

• The specific university course entry requirements to make sure you have the right subjects and the right UCAS Tariff points needed/grades.
• Type of qualification on offer: For example, is it academic, vocational, single honours, joint honours, combined honours, modular or sandwich (sandwich means it usually includes a year working)?
• Reputation: What is the quality of teaching and research? What do recent students say about it?
• Student satisfaction.
• Academic facilities.
• Course teaching methods: What is the balance between lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical or work-related activities?
• Course assessment: Is it all examination-based or partly based on coursework?
• Tuition fee costs.
• Graduate destinations: How many find employment? What kind of careers do they go into?
• Location and distance from home: Do you want to live in a big city or somewhere quieter?
• Costs: Some places are cheaper to live in than others!
• Accommodation: Are all first year students offered accommodation?
• Is study or employment abroad part of the course?
• Part-time and holiday work: Does the university help and encourage this and do they have a student employment service?
• Social activities: What clubs, societies and sporting facilities are there?

4. Apply (autumn Year 13):

Most applications for full-time HE courses are made through UCAS — the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. Applications are made using the UCAS online system “Apply”. You need to complete various sections, such as personal details, education/employment history and a personal statement (this is key as you need to explain why you want to study your chosen course). Further information is on the UCAS website.

You apply for performing arts courses at conservatoires through the UCAS Conservatoires section of their website. Further information is on the UCAS website.

A. University league tables can be used to compare universities. There are a number of different league tables available to use, although it’s worth knowing that they calculate their tables using different criteria and weighting. However, all should include student satisfaction scores; student to staff ratio; graduate prospects and entry grades.

Although they are a useful source of information, they do have their limitations! For example, not all indicators are updated yearly and student feedback may not be objective.

The UniGuide website adds the following points:

• Just because a university is at the top of a league table doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right one for you.
• League tables are often closely bunched together at the top, middle and bottom, so don’t read too much into universities placed five to 10 places apart. A university in 20th place can be separated by the one in 30th place by only a few percentage points. It adds that this is also why some universities and courses fluctuate from year to year – small differences in the score can mean big differences in the ranking order.
• League tables don’t always tell you the full story as certain university courses may be well regarded by employers in specific career areas, even though the universities may not feature in the upper reaches of the tables. Falmouth University and Sunderland University are known to produce high achieving graduates in journalism and animation respectively, but there’s little sense of that reflected in the league tables.

Here are two sources of league tables to check out:

• The Guardian
• The Complete University Guide

Remember though, you need to choose the right course and university for you, based on factors that are important to you! You therefore need to decide your priorities – create your own list of key factors and do your research.

Some factors to consider include:

• Location and distance from home e.g. big city versus somewhere quieter.
• Course content.
• Entry requirements.
• Academic facilities.
• Course teaching methods.
• Course assessment: Is it all examination-based or partly based on coursework?
• Graduate destinations: How many find employment? What kind of careers do they go into?
• Living costs – some places are cheaper to live in than others!
• Student accommodation on offer.
• Social activities: What clubs, societies and sporting facilities are there?

A. You need to use the UCAS website to apply for most undergraduate courses.

You apply for performing arts courses at conservatoires through UCAS  Conservatoires.

A. Possibly. It is often a requirement to have studied an art and design foundation course to gain entry to many art and design courses at university. You need to check the specific entry requirements for your chosen universities.

A. The usual UCAS deadlines are 15 October for the universities of Oxford, Cambridge or any professional course in medicine, veterinary medicine/science and dentistry; the last Wednesday in January for the majority of courses.

Some course providers require additional admissions tests to be taken alongside the UCAS application, and these may have a deadline.

UCAS Conservatoires: The usual application deadline for music courses starting the next year is early October. For most undergraduate dance, drama or screen production courses the deadline is the last Wednesday in January. However there are exceptions, please check with individual conservatoires for full details as dates do vary. More information is available on the UCAS website.

A. Possibly, it will depend on what course you have applied for (e.g. law, medicine) and where you have applied (e.g. Cambridge and Oxford).

Most admissions tests take place early in the school year, so if you do need to take one you’ll need to register for it early, possibly before you’ve sent your application off.

UCAS add that many of the courses that use admissions tests are also the courses that have the 15 October application deadline, so it’s worth checking these details in advance.

More information is on the UCAS website.

A. You can choose up to five courses. There’s no preference order and your universities won’t see where else you’ve applied until after you reply to any offers you get.

However, you can only choose a maximum of four courses in any one of medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine or veterinary science. Also, you can only apply to one course at either the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge.

After you’ve sent off your application you can see how it’s progressing by logging in to the UCAS system called Track.

A. It varies, but it’s more likely if you have applied for competitive courses. If you are invited for an interview you can use University Interviews Guide to prepare. This book is in the sixth form library and is arranged into an A-Z of more than 80 degree courses, each with subject specific advice and sample questions. It also includes a section on applications to all undergraduate UK Medical Schools, Oxbridge section and sections on Primary Teaching, Veterinary Science, Nursing and Midwifery.

A. Course tutors use personal statements (plus estimated grades and references) to compare applicants, so make sure you sell yourself so that your application stands out from the rest!

UCAS advise you not to mention universities by name as you need to use the same personal statement for all the courses you apply for.

The UCAS website gives useful tips for writing your personal statement.

Also, in addition to getting help to write your personal statement in your post-16 tutorial sessions, check out the personal statements books in the sixth form library.

A. A conditional offer usually means you are required to get certain grades or points in your A levels (or equivalent). This will mean waiting for results day in summer to see if your exam results meet the conditions.

An unconditional offer usually means you’ve already met the entry requirements, so the place is yours if you want it! By accepting an unconditional offer you are committing to go to that university, so you can’t make an insurance choice or be entered into Clearing.

You can accept a maximum of two choices – one firm and one insurance. You can only have an insurance choice if your firm choice is a conditional offer. If you accept an unconditional offer as your firm choice then the place is guaranteed, so you cannot have an insurance choice.

You will only attend your insurance choice if you don’t meet the conditions of your firm choice but you do meet the conditions of your insurance offer. So make sure your insurance offer is somewhere you would be happy going to.

You also have the option to decline offers. If you decline all offers, or are not made any offers, you can use UCAS Extra and/or Clearing.

A. The UCAS Tariff is a means of allocating points to compare post-16 qualifications used for entry to higher education. However, it’s worth noting that only one-third of universities make tariff offers; meaning two-thirds of offers request specific grades.

For example, the tariff points for A levels are:

• A* = 56 points.
• A = 48.
• B = 40.
• C = 32.
• D = 24.
• E = 16.

The tariff points for a BTEC subsidiary diploma (equivalent to 1 A level) are:

• Distinction* = 56 points.
• Distinction = 48.
• Merit = 32.
• Pass = 16.

For more information about the Tariff go to the UCAS website.

A. Extra is a way of making a further course choice. If you’ve used five choices and weren’t accepted or you decided to decline any offers you received, you can use UCAS Extra to apply for more courses (one at a time). It is open between 25 February and early July.

A. Clearing helps universities fill any places they have left on their courses and is available July to September each year. So you can use it if you have no offers or didn’t meet your conditional offers.

A. The UCAS website provides detailed information to help you with your UCAS application. It also provides lots of useful videos, such as a step-by-step guide to applying.

Also, check out The UCAS guide to getting into university and college (this book is available in the sixth form library).

A. Yes and many more students are considering this option due to the cost of UK university tuition fees. Use the following websites to carefully research your options and the financial implications:

• A Star Future: Use to search for courses taught in English abroad.
• The Student World: This gives guidance about where to study, why, the process and financial implications.
• Eunicas: Enables UK and Irish students to apply to degree programmes, taught through English, in universities across Europe.
• Fulbright Commission: Use to explore studying in the USA.
• Study in the USA: Use to explore studying in the USA.
• Study options: Use to explore studying in Australia and New Zealand.
• StudyLink: Information and guidance about studying abroad.
• Medical Doorway: Free advice to students aiming to study medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine in Europe.

A. Yes, Year 12/13 students will get help from their post-16 tutor, local universities and the school’s careers adviser, Mr Silgram. This help will include:

• Support to plan what to study and where.
• Help to understand the UCAS process and how to apply.
• Support to write your personal statement.
• Preparation for university interviews.
• Help to understand the student finance process.
• 1:1 careers advice (if needed).

A. Check out the following:

• Job search sites, such as fish4jobs and Get my first job
• Jobcentre Plus (your local job centre).
• Universal jobmatch. This government site enables you to search and apply for full or part-time jobs.
• Newspapers. For example, the Birmingham Mail has jobs on a Thursday.
• Employment agencies. They can help you to find temporary and permanent jobs.
• Personal contacts. Ask your friends and family if they know about any vacancies.
• Local high streets. You can often find part-time or holiday work advertised in shop or restaurant windows.
• Online directories, such as yell.com to find employers and employment agencies. Check employer websites to see if they are advertising any jobs, or consider sending them a speculative letter or CV.

A. No. The government says that Year 11 students must be in some form of learning until they are 18 years old. So any job you do, including working for a family business or for yourself (self-employment), must include part-time education or training.

Go to the government website  for more information.

A. Yes, but you will first need to come up with a realistic idea that you can turn into a product or service. You will then need to test the market and develop a business plan. You’ll also need funding to set the business up.

Advice about starting your own business is available on the government website

The Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme can help you decide whether self-employment is right for you. It offers help to 18 to 30 year olds who are either unemployed or working less than 16 hours a week.

A. The National Minimum Wage rate per hour depends on your age and whether you’re an apprentice.

The rates are usually updated every October. For the latest information go to the Government website.

A. The youngest age you can work part-time is 13, except if you are involved in areas such as television, theatre and modelling (children working in these areas will need a performance licence).

You can start full-time work once you have officially left school (you can work up to a maximum of 40 hours a week). Once you reach 18, adult employment rights and rules apply. More information is available on the government website.

A. Yes. You must be at least 13 years old and you are not allowed to work in places like a factory or industrial site.

You are also not allowed to work:

• During school hours.
• Before 7am or after 7pm.
• For more than one hour before school (unless local bylaws allow it).
• For more than 4 hours without taking a break of at least 1 hour.

There are also special rules which only apply during term times and school holidays. For example, during term time you can only work a maximum of 12 hours a week. This includes:

• A maximum of 2 hours on school days/Sundays.
• A maximum of 5 hours on Saturdays for 13 to 14-year-olds or 8 hours for 15 to 16-year-olds.

During school holidays, 13 to 14-year-olds are only allowed to work a maximum of 25 hours a week. This includes:

• A maximum of 5 hours on weekdays/Saturdays.
• A maximum of 2 hours on Sundays.

During school holidays, 15 to 16-year-olds can only work a maximum of 35 hours a week. This includes:

• A maximum of 8 hours on weekdays/Saturdays.
• A maximum of 2 hours on Sundays.

Full details are available on the government website.

A. Although the work is usually unpaid, there are lots of good reasons to become a volunteer, such as doing something useful in your spare time, making a contribution to your community, meeting new people, making friends or learning a new skill. It’s also a great way to gain experience, which may also help you with your future career plans.

Use these websites to find out more:

Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC) offers local volunteering opportunities.

National Citizen Service is open to all 16 and 17-year-olds in England. It helps you build your skills for work and life, while you take on new challenges and meet new friends. Participants develop a social action project to deal with a local issue they’re passionate about, and spend 30 hours putting the project into action in their community.

Volunteering Matters. This was formerly called CSV (Community Service Volunteers) and they offer a range of volunteering opportunities.

A. The job market is constantly changing. You can use labour market information (LMI) to research job trends in different career areas.

Use the following websites to research LMI and to check what future trends are predicted for your chosen career:

• Prospects : Graduate job sector information.
• Nomis: Provides a labour market profile of an area (e.g. search for Birmingham). Includes data on population, employment, unemployment, qualifications, earnings, benefit claimants and businesses.
• LMI for all: Provides easy access to labour market information, including an indication if a particular job is increasing or declining in numbers.
• Career Companion: Independent and impartial gateway to careers information on the internet.

A. Yes, use the Kudos software program. If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram). You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password).

Then go to “MY FUTURE”. Answer a series of questions and Kudos will come up with a list of careers for you to consider.

Also, if you need 1:1 careers advice, see Mr Silgram, the school’s careers adviser. He can help you to explore job ideas.

A. The 2 key questions are:

What do you want to study? There are lots of different subjects and courses to choose from. Options include general qualifications and vocational qualifications. General qualifications include GCSEs and A levels. These qualifications prepare you for a range of different careers, rather than focusing on a specific job. In contrast, vocational qualifications are work-related and can give you the skills needed for a broad area of work or train you for a specific job. Courses are usually practical and involve hands-on projects. Examples of vocational courses include engineering, childcare, hair & beauty, motor vehicle, health & social care and business (plus there are lots more!).

Where do you want to study? For example, at Moseley School, another school that has a sixth form, college or a specialist college.

A. You have lots of options! These include Moseley School, other schools that have a sixth form, colleges and specialist colleges. They vary in size and the courses they offer, so you’ll need to think about the type of place where you would like to study and what course you want to do.

You may want to stay at Moseley School as you know the teachers and are happy here. Alternatively, you may want a change of scenery and decide that another school or college would be better for you.

There are also newer specialist colleges to consider, such as Aston University Engineering Academy that specialises in engineering and science courses and Birmingham Ormiston Academy that specialises in creative, digital and performing arts courses.

You could also consider applying to local grammar schools as they offer opportunities to students to join their sixth forms.

It will also depend on what you want to study. For example, if you want to do A levels you’ll need to find a school or college that offers all the ones that interest you. 

Please note, not all colleges offer A levels (for example, Solihull College) and some colleges may offer A levels at a particular campus (for example, BMET only offers A levels at their campus in Sutton Coldfield).

If you wish to do a practical vocational course, such as motor vehicle studies, you will find that these courses are usually offered by FE colleges that specialise in vocational courses, such as Solihull College and South & City College (and not, for example, at sixth form colleges such as Joseph Chamberlain College, Cadbury College and Solihull 6th Form College).

So it’s really important that you decide what course or courses you want to do and then find out which schools and colleges offer them. You can then use their website and attend open days/evenings to find out more information; such as course entry requirements, what you will study on the course, how it is taught, whether there are any exams, the results students achieve, what students do after the course and what facilities are available (such as a library and access to computers).

You should also consider travel arrangements. How far are you willing to travel and how would you get there? Use google maps to check how long it would get there by bus/car/walking.

Information about Moseley School sixth form courses is available on the school website.

The website addresses for local colleges are:

• Access Creative College – Birmingham
• Aston University Engineering Academy 
• Birmingham Metropolitan College (includes Matthew Boulton)
• Birmingham Ormiston Academy 
• Cadbury College 
• Joseph Chamberlain College
• Solihull Sixth Form College 
• Solihull College
• South & City College
• University College Birmingham 

A. Options include general qualifications, such as GCSEs and A levels. General qualifications prepare you for a range of different careers, rather than focusing on a specific job.

In contrast, vocational qualifications are work-related and can give you the skills needed for a broad area of work or train you for a specific job. Courses are usually practical, involve hands-on projects and include courses like City & Guilds, NVQ and BTEC.

What to study will also depend on your GCSE results as, for example, level 3 options will usually require 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 4-9, usually including maths and English.

Level 3 options available include the following (all can lead to university and other options, such apprenticeships, including degree apprenticeships):

1. A levels (you usually study 3 subjects, some places may allow 4). Assessment is 100% exam. You usually need a minimum of 3 subjects for university degrees. For some A level subjects you may need a grade 6 at GCSE (for example, schools and colleges would expect you to get a 6 or higher at GCSE maths to take the subject at A level). Grammar schools may even want a grade 7 or 8 to study particular A levels.

1. Mixing A levels and BTECs. For example:

• Take 2 A levels plus a BTEC level 3 National Extended Certificate (which is equivalent to 1 A level).
• Take 1 A level and 2 BTEC level 3 National Extended Certificates.
• Take 1 A level and a BTEC National Diploma (which is equivalent to 2 A levels).
• Take 3 BTEC level 3 National Extended Certificates.

3. Taking a BTEC National Extended Diploma. This is equivalent to 3 A levels and you usually only study one vocational area, such as science, engineering, business, health & social care and performing arts. Assessment is a mixture of exams and coursework.

A new level 3 qualification is T levels and more colleges will be offering this in the coming years. You will study one vocational subject and it will be equivalent to 3 A levels. It will last for 2 years and will include a significant work placement to put learning into practice. With a T Level you spend about 20% of your time in the work place and 80% in college (see question about T levels for more information).

Level 2 and level 1 courses:

If you are predicted lower than 5 GCSEs at grades 4-9 (or equivalent), including maths and English, you can apply for level 2 or level 1 courses. Level 2 courses include GCSE re-takes and vocational courses, such as BTEC. These usually last for one year and could lead to level 3 courses.

For example, if you got mainly grade 3s in your GCSEs and wanted to study health & social care, you could study the one-year BTEC level 2 health & social care course (and you would also re-sit your maths and English GCSEs). If successful, this could then lead to the two-year BTEC level 3 extended diploma in health & social care (equivalent to 3 A levels).

Note 1: If you don’t get a grade 4 or higher in maths and/or English, you will have to re-take them alongside your level 2/level 1 course.

Note 2: For some courses, you may have to start at level 1 or level 2 as you have to learn the basics first e.g. motor vehicle courses.

A. T Levels are a new level 3 qualification that more colleges will be offering in the coming years. You will study one vocational subject and it will be equivalent to 3 A levels.

These 2-year courses have been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses so that the content meets the needs of industry and prepares students for work. They include a significant work placement to put learning into practice. With a T Level you spend about 20% of your time in the work place and 80% in college.

Students who complete their T Level will receive an overall grade of pass, merit, distinction or distinction*. T Levels will provide several progression options to students. These include employment, an apprenticeship and higher education.

Check out this Government website to see which courses are available.

More information is online at www.gov.uk

Examples of local colleges that will be offering T Levels:

• Cadbury College: www.cadcol.ac.uk
• South & City College: www.sccb.ac.uk
• Solihull College: www.solihull.ac.uk
• UCB: www.ucb.ac.uk

To check what other local colleges and schools will be offering, go to www.tlevels.gov.uk (enter your postcode and it will list colleges and schools and which T Levels they will be offering).

A. Yes. To study level 3 courses (such as A levels or BTEC courses) you will usually need a minimum of 4/5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 (many will want this to include maths and English). Some schools and colleges may ask for more than 4/5 GCSEs and may also want a grade 6 to study a specific subject. For example, Moseley School requires a grade 6 at maths GCSE to study A level maths.

If you get 3/2s in your GCSEs you could consider doing a level 2 course, such as GCSE resits or a BTEC course. Please note, all schools and colleges will offer maths and English GCSE re-sits, but few places offer a full GCSE resit programme. 

Alternatively, if your grades are lower than 3s and 2s, you may want to consider taking level 1 vocational courses.

For more information refer to the grid below:

A. Reasons for choosing A levels include being good at a subject, enjoying a subject and needing it for a future option/career.

To make an informed choice you need to do your research. Check what you will be studying (especially important if it’s a subject you have not studied before) and make sure your A level subjects keep open any career or university course ideas you have.

Advice about choosing A levels from the Russell Group Universities (they represent 24 UK universities) is that some university courses may require you to have studied a specific subject or subjects prior to entry. This means the subjects you study at sixth form or college will influence the degrees which are open to you at university and potentially your future career. Different universities can have different requirements so you should always check the specific subject requirements for degrees you are interested in.

However, there are also a number of degrees that don’t usually have subject choice requirements.

Use the Russell Groups Informed Choices website to explore how A level choices link to future degree options, particularly at Russell Group universities.

Use the section “I don’t know what degree I would like to study” to explore degree options based on possible A level subject combinations.

Use the section “I know what degree I want to study” to find out what subjects you may need to study at school or college for a particular university course.

Informed Choices has been written by admissions directors from the 24 Russell Group universities and provides information on why subject choice matters. Remember, this is general guidance only. For detailed and up-to-date information you will need to contact individual universities or look up courses on the UCAS website

A. Use the Kudos software program. To log on, go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram). You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password).

Go to “EXPLORE CAREERS” to search for a specific career you want to check out.

If you’re not sure which careers interest you, you can also use Kudos to generate career ideas and then check the entry qualifications needed to make sure your choices keep your career ideas open.

Go to “MY FUTURE” . Answer a series of questions and Kudos will come up with a list of careers for you to consider.

A. BTECs are general work-related qualifications which can lead to further study at college or university, apprenticeships or employment. They combine practical work with academic learning.

They do not train you for a specific job, but they focus you on a particular vocational area, so you need to have decided on the general area of work you would like to do.

A wide range of subjects are available, such as art and design, engineering, business studies, travel & tourism, public services and health & social care.

BTECs can be taken on their own or with GCSEs and A Levels.

Level 3 BTECs are equivalent to A levels and can lead to university. You will need 4/5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above to do a level 3 BTEC.

A. There are 3 levels:

A. Once you have done all your research you should aim to apply by Christmas (especially for popular schools and colleges).

Many places have online applications; check their website for details.

If you are planning to apply to grammar schools, check their website for application deadlines.

Information about Moseley School sixth form courses is available on the school website .

The website addresses for local colleges are:

• Access Creative College – Birmingham
• Aston University Engineering Academy 
• Birmingham Metropolitan College (includes Matthew Boulton)
• Birmingham Ormiston Academy 
• Cadbury College 
• Joseph Chamberlain College
• Solihull Sixth Form College 
• Solihull College
• South & City College
• University College Birmingham 

A. If you need 1:1 careers advice, see Mr Silgram, the school’s careers adviser. He can help you decide what to study and where.

A. Students are more engaged with subjects when they see how they relate to the real world. Linking subjects to careers and pathways can make subjects more meaningful and relevant for students.

It can also encourage students to be more aspirational and to realise that there are numerous pathways to success.

A. The DfE and Ofsted expect schools to be working towards the 8 Gatsby Benchmarks that set out a framework for schools to deliver good career guidance (see table below).

Benchmark 4 conveys that all teachers should link curriculum learning with careers.

The Gatsby Benchmarks set out a framework for schools to deliver “good career guidance”

1.  A stable careers programme

Every school should have an embedded programme of career education and guidance that is known and understood by students, parents, teachers, governors and employers.

2. Learning from careers and labour market information

Every student, and their parents, should have access to good quality information about future study options and labour market opportunities.

3. Addressing the needs of each student

Students have different career guidance needs at different stages. Opportunities for advice and support need to be tailored to the needs of each student.

4. Linking curriculum learning to careers

All teachers should link curriculum learning with careers. STEM teachers should highlight the relevance of STEM subjects for a wide range of future career paths.

5. Encounters with employers and employees

Every student should have multiple opportunities to learn from employers about work, employment and the skills that are valued in the workplace. This can be through a range of enrichment activities, including visiting speakers, mentoring and enterprise schemes.

6. Experiences of workplaces 

Every student should have first-hand experiences of the workplace through work visits, work shadowing and/or work experience to help their exploration of career opportunities and to expand their networks.

7. Encounters with further and higher education

All students should understand the full range of learning opportunities that are available to them. This includes both academic and vocational routes and learning in schools, colleges, universities and in the workplace.

8. Personal guidance

Every student should have opportunities for guidance interviews with a Careers Adviser. These should be available whenever study or career choices are being made.

A. Firstly, Mr Silgram, the school’s Careers Leader, has produced posters that link school subjects to careers and employability skills developed in that subject. These are currently displayed around the school and PDF versions can be found on the school’s shared drive > Faculty > CEIAG > National Careers Week.

Also, all faculties support National Careers Week. This takes place in early March and Mr Silgram has produced lesson plans and 68 PowerPoints to help teachers link their subject to careers (for Years 7 to 10). Each subject has 4 lesson starters. The resources for Year 7 and 8 focus on careers related to subjects and the lesson starters for Years 9 and 10 additionally look at related university and apprenticeship pathways. These can also be found on the school’s shared drive > Faculty > CEIAG > National Careers Week.

These lesson plans and PowerPoints in particular utilise careers videos from icould.com and careersbox.co.uk and the following websites to explore how subjects link to careers, university pathways and apprenticeships:

• Prospects – What can I do with my degree: prospects.ac.uk
• UCAS: ucas.com
• Apprenticeships: www.gov.uk

There are lots of other ways you can also link subjects to careers, including:

• Inviting employers to speak about their career to students. If you haven’t got your own contacts you can link with organisations that link schools with employers, such as www.founders4schools.org.uk; www.stem.org.uk and www.inspiringthefuture.org Moseley School and Sixth Form is also looking to link with ex-students by developing an alumni network via LinkedIn.
• Employers running workshops and activities. For example, the Technology and Arts Faculty has linked with organisations such as HS2 and Tomorrow’s Engineers to run practical workshops for students. Likewise, the Vocational Education Faculty has linked with Deloitte to run a “Business in a Classroom” project.
• Visiting an employer or an event (such as The Big Bang STEM event at the NEC).
• Teachers talking about their own career path.
• Putting up a faculty careers display.
• Setting real life work scenarios that expand students’ familiarity with different jobs. For example, a maths question about a quantity surveyor.
• Using a newspaper or magazine article to spark discussion.
• Taking students to a university subject master class.
• Year 8 options: Ensuring your subject description conveys how the subject links to future opportunities.
• Year 8 options: Running subject “tasters” and emphasising where the subject can lead (especially useful if you teach a subject students have not studied before).
• Students using careers computer programs to explore careers linked to subjects. The school purchases Kudos and eCLIPS programs. In Kudos, students can use the “Subjects” section to check out careers linked to subjects. In eCLIPS, if students go to “Education” they can then use the “GCSEs and Options After Year 8/9” section to explore subject links. Details of how to log-on onto these programs can be found on the school’s shared drive > Faculty > CEIAG > Careers Computer Programs.
• Checking out resources on professional body and Royal Society websites, such as the Royal Society for Biology: www.rsb.org.uk
• Purchasing resources that link subjects to careers. For example, check out Success at schools: Success at school.org

A. Young people have a wide range of choices available to them and they are likely to ask staff for information and advice about future options and opportunities.

Staff may therefore find it useful to refer students to the wide range of careers information available on the school website. The information is designed to help students to make an informed decision.

There are 13 sections that focus on key questions and answers and you will also find links to useful websites, videos and other sources of information and help.

Please click here careers-advice-guidance to check out any of the following 13 sections:

• Need careers advice?
• Year 8 options
• Options after Year 11
• Post-18 options
• Apprenticeships and traineeships
• Further education
• Jobs and voluntary work
• University applications
• Student finance
• Career ideas
• Parents and carers
• Useful websites and information
• Careers entitlements

You can also make referrals to the school’s impartial careers adviser, Mr Silgram.

Top 10 things to know about careers for teachers

1. WHAT THE LAW SAYS ABOUT POST-16 OPTIONS

The official school leaving date is the last Friday of June of the school year in which they turn 16. Also, did you know that the government has increased the age that students must continue in learning? Year 11 students must be in some form of learning until they are 18 years old. They can choose from the following:

• Stay in full-time education, for example at a school or a college.
• Start an apprenticeship or traineeship.
• Spend 20 hours or more a week working (including working in a family business) or volunteering, while in part-time education or training.

2. NEW EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY: T LEVELS

T Levels are a new level 3 qualification that more colleges and schools will be offering in the coming years. T Levels include lots of work experience; with students spending about 20% of their time in the work place and 80% in college/school. Students will study one vocational course and it will be equivalent to 3 A levels. Examples on offer will include accounting, construction, engineering, childcare, healthcare science, finance and science.

Further information

3. DEGREE APPRENTICESHIPS

Apprentices get real on-the-job experience in their chosen profession and split their time between university study and the workplace and will be employed throughout. They gain a full bachelor’s or master’s degree from a top university while earning a wage and they don’t have to pay university tuition fees, saving them £9,250 a year!

Further information

4. SCHOOL WEBSITE, CAREERS SECTION

If you get asked careers related questions, direct students to the school website where you will find the answers to lots of questions. There are 16 sections, such as: Apprenticeships and traineeships; Further education; University applications; Student finance and Useful websites and information.

5. CAREERS SOFTWARE PROGAMS PURCHASED BY THE SCHOOL

Students can use Kudos and eCLIPS to explore and develop their career ideas.

Further information:

eCLIPS:

1. Click login (top right) and the password is mos96 (lower-case).
2. To check out careers click “Careers” at the top of the website and then “Job Groups”. You can then use the 23 job families to explore careers.

Kudos:

• If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code b139uu (all lower case, no spaces). You will then be able to create your own account.

6. THE SCHOOL’S CAREERS ADVISER/CAREERS LEADER IS BARRY SILGRAM

 Email address: sil@moseley.bham.sch.uk

7. RESTRICTIONS ON CHILD EMPLOYMENT (including part-time jobs)

For example, during term time children can only work a maximum of 12 hours a week. This includes:

• A maximum of 2 hours on school days and Sundays.
• A maximum of 5 hours on Saturdays for 13 to 14-year-olds, or 8 hours for 15 to 16-year-olds.

Further information

8. WORK EXPERIENCE

• Year 10s go on placement in May.
• Year 12 level 2 students do a placement early January.
• Year 12 level 3 students start their placement in July (last week of term).

9. LINKING CAREERS TO YOUR SUBJECT

The DfE and Ofsted expect schools to be working towards the 8 Gatsby Benchmarks that set out a framework for schools to deliver good career guidance. Benchmark 4 conveys that all teachers should link curriculum learning with careers. During National Careers Week (March) you are expected to use the PowerPoints from Mr Silgram to support this.

 Further information: Shared drive > Faculty > CEIAG > National Careers Week 

10. OSTED REPORT 2021

The September 2021 Ofsted report highlighted the following:

“Careers education is comprehensive. Pupils have the right information to help them make informed choices about their next steps.”

A. Benefits include earning a salary, getting paid holidays, receiving training, gaining qualifications and earning job-specific skills.

A. All apprentices must receive the appropriate national minimum wage. The rate per hour depends on your age and whether you’re an apprentice. The rates are usually updated every October. For the latest information go to the Government website

A. Lots! The apprenticeship website says there are over 150,000 employers “offering apprenticeships in more than 200,000 locations, covering more than 170 industries and 1,500 job roles”. Specific examples include:

• Accounting
• Animal care
• Teaching assistant
• Healthcare support worker
• Dental nurse
• Pharmacy technician
• Cabin crew
• Leisure
• Travel services
• Design assistant
• Construction
• Engineering
• IT
• Retail
• Hair and beauty
• Plus lots more…

In the West Midlands, the following 5 apprenticeship types had the most opportunities last year:

1. Business, Administration and Law

e.g. accounting technician, finance assistant, legal secretary, office junior, market researcher, salesperson, social media assistant, web designer, customer service adviser, HR assistant.

2. Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies

e.g. car body repair, vehicle maintenance, tool maker, welder, software engineer.

3. Health, Public Services and Care

e.g. early year’s worker, care assistant, nursery nurse, healthcare assistant, dental nurse, pharmacy assistant.

4. Information and Communication Technology

e.g. database administrator, junior network security officer, website designer, software developer, software tester, helpdesk professional, network engineer.

5. Retail and Commercial Enterprise

e.g. hairdresser, barber, shop assistant, junior beauty therapist, cook/chef, hospitality assistant, housekeeper, waiter, warehouse operative, customer service adviser.

A. There are three types of apprenticeship you can apply for depending on your current skills and qualifications. These are:

• Intermediate level apprenticeships. These are generally considered to be the same level as five GCSE passes.
• Advanced Level Apprenticeships. These are generally considered to be the same level as two A level passes.
• Higher and Degree Apprenticeships.

A. The UCAS website conveys that higher apprenticeships provide an opportunity to gain a higher education qualification, such as an NVQ Level 4, HND or foundation degree. They can take from one to five years to complete, and involve part-time study at a college, university or training provider.

Use the apprenticeship website to check out the latest apprenticeship vacancies.

A. In March 2015 these were launched by the government. They have been developed by businesses, universities and colleges. Apprentices will split their time between university study and the workplace and will be employed throughout – gaining a full bachelor’s or master’s degree from a top university while earning a wage and getting real on-the-job experience in their chosen profession.

Use the apprenticeship website to search for degree apprenticeship vacancies.

The UCAS website also has useful information about degree apprenticeships.

The Prospects website provides further information about degree apprenticeships.

For further information and to search for opportunities also check out the following:

• The national apprenticeship website – The national apprenticeship website (Includes general information about apprenticeships and has real apprenticeship vacancies).

• Get my first job – Get my first job  (Includes apprenticeship and traineeship vacancies).
• Careermap – Career map website (Search and apply for apprenticeships.
• Rate my apprenticeship – Rate my apprenticeship website (Includes useful information and apprenticeship vacancies).

• Amazing Apprenticeships – Amazing apprenticeships website

A. They vary. An apprenticeship is like a job and students need to demonstrate a strong interest in their chosen apprenticeship area and be ready to start a job! You need to check the apprenticeship vacancies for the specific entry requirements. For example, some may want 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4, others may ask for a Level 2 qualification in English and maths (such as GCSEs at 9-4 or a Level 2 Award in Functional Skills). Some may ask you to take a numeracy and literacy test before you are accepted onto the Apprenticeship.

A. You need to search and apply using the apprenticeship website.  You can also check out employer websites if you have a particular employer in mind.

Other useful websites for applying for apprenticeships include:

• Amazing Apprenticeships: www.amazingapprenticeships.com
• Get my first job: www.getmyfirstjob.co.uk
• Careermap: www.careermap.co.uk
• Rate my apprenticeship: www.ratemyapprenticeship.co.uk
• UCAS: www.ucas.com/degree-apprenticeships  Has useful information about degree apprenticeships.

A. Traineeships are an option if you want to work but need extra help to gain an apprenticeship or job. Traineeships will give you the opportunity to develop the skills and workplace experience that employers require.

You can search and apply for traineeships using the apprenticeship website.

A. Yes, see Mr Silgram, the school’s careers adviser.

A. Your main options are higher education, doing an apprenticeship , finding a job , further education  or taking a year out.

A. Reasons for taking a gap year vary. For example, you may want to use the time to review your future plans, go travelling, do work experience (possibly linked to your chosen course or future career plans), develop new skills, earn money to fund your university place or volunteer in the UK or abroad.

For more information, check out “The gap year guide book” (available in the sixth form library) or useful websites, such as Prospects 

A. Possibly. It is often a requirement to have studied an art and design foundation course to gain entry to many art and design courses at university. You need to check the specific entry requirements for your chosen universities.

A. The UCAS website conveys that higher apprenticeships provide an opportunity to gain a higher education qualification, such as an NVQ Level 4, HND or foundation degree. They can take from one to five years to complete, and involve part-time study at a college, university or training provider.

Use the apprenticeship website to check out the latest apprenticeship vacancies.

aA. In March 2015 these were launched by the government. They have been developed by businesses, universities and colleges. Apprentices will split their time between university study and the workplace and will be employed throughout – gaining a full bachelor’s or master’s degree from a top university while earning a wage and getting real on-the-job experience in their chosen profession.

Use the apprenticeship website to search for degree apprenticeship vacancies.

The UCAS website also has useful information about degree apprenticeships.

The Prospects website provides further information about degree apprenticeships.

For further information and to search for opportunities also check out the following:

• The national apprenticeship website – The national apprenticeship website (Includes general information about apprenticeships and has real apprenticeship vacancies).

• Get my first job – Get my first job  (Includes apprenticeship and traineeship vacancies).
• Careermap – Career map website (Search and apply for apprenticeships.
• Rate my apprenticeship – Rate my apprenticeship website (Includes useful information and apprenticeship vacancies).

• Amazing Apprenticeships – Amazing apprenticeships website

A. No, but the government has increased the age you must continue in learning. This means that Year 11 students must be in some form of learning until they are 18 years old.

You can choose from the following:

• Stay in full-time education. For example, at a college or school sixth form.
• Start an apprenticeship or traineeship.
• Spend 20 hours or more a week working (including family businesses) or volunteering, combined with part-time education/training.

Go to the government website for more information

A. The official date is the last Friday of June of the school year in which you turn 16.

A. Your main options are further education , apprenticeships and jobs.

Traineeships are an option if you want to work but need extra help to gain an apprenticeship or job. Traineeships will give you the opportunity to develop the skills and workplace experience that employers require.

For more information about your options after Year 11, check out the Icould videos. The Icould videos include people talking about their own choices at 16 and has articles about your options.

A. It depends on personal circumstances. The 16 to 19 Bursary Fund is aimed at students who need financial help so that they can stay in learning. The Bursary Fund can help pay for costs like equipment you might need for your course and transport.

It can be worth £1,200 a year if you are:

• In or recently left local authority care.
• Getting Income Support or Universal Credit because you are financially supporting yourself.
• Getting Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in your name and either Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit.
• Getting Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in your name and either ESA or Universal Credit.

If you’re not in one of the above groups you may still get a bursary depending on your personal circumstances. You need to check with your school, college or training provider to see if you are eligible.

More information is also on the government website.

Additionally, if you’re studying and aged under 20 at the start of your course, Care to Learn can help pay for your childcare costs while you’re learning. More information is on the government website.

A. If you need 1:1 careers advice, see Mr Silgram, the school’s careers adviser. He can help you decide what to do after Year 11.

A. If staying in further education, aim to apply by Christmas at the latest as some colleges fill up before the Christmas holidays! Check the course entry requirements and it is advisable to attend open days/evenings.

Most apprenticeships and jobs are looking for “immediate starts”, so the majority of the opportunities you can go for will be advertised later in Year 11 (such as April onwards). However, some employers recruit early, such as Jaguar Land Rover.

Use the apprenticeship website to create an account and to search and apply for vacancies. You can also set-up alerts for opportunities that interest you. Remember, some apprenticeship areas, such as motor vehicle, electrical work or childcare, are very popular!

If you’re looking for a job, check out the Jobs and voluntary work section.

A. Use the Kudos computer program. If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram. You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password).  Then go to “MY FUTURE”. Answer a series of questions and Kudos will come up with a list of careers for you to consider.

Also, if you need 1:1 careers advice, see Mr Silgram, the school’s careers adviser. He can help you decide what to do after Year 11.

A. Like many schools, students at Moseley School choose their courses in Year 8, which means you will get up-to three years to study your subjects. However, some schools continue to make their subject choices in Year 9.

It is also possible to transfer at the start of Year 10 to a specialist vocational college, such as Aston University Engineering Academy (which specialises in engineering and science courses) and Birmingham Ormiston Academy (which specialises in creative, digital and performing arts courses).

A. Yes, the “Core Curriculum” is studied by all students to ensure basic skills are developed and a broad and balanced education is gained by everyone. These include English, maths, science, RE and PE (non-examined); plus at least one from modern foreign languages, history or geography.

A. The “Additional Curriculum” enables you to choose other GCSE/BTEC subjects, such as art, drama, computer science, engineering, business studies, health & social care, travel & tourism, sport studies and textiles. Full details of courses on offer will be in your Year 8 information booklet.

A. The EBacc is not a qualification in itself. It is a particular group of GCSE subjects looked on favourably by universities. The subjects are English, maths, science (including computer science), history or geography and a modern foreign language. You do not need to have studied all these subjects to go to university but having your GCSE mix steered towards the English Baccalaureate will help keep options open.

A. BTECs are work-related qualifications. They cover a wide range of vocational areas and learning is related to the world of work. Assessment is through a portfolio of work, but may also include some examination. A level 2 qualification is equivalent to GCSE at grade 9 to 4. They can be taken alongside, or in place of, GCSEs.

A. General Certificate of Secondary Education. GCSEs cover general subjects like English, maths, history, science and languages. The Government has introduced changes, including a new 1-9 grading scale. This replaced the A* to G grades. For example, grades 4/5 are equivalent to a grade C, grade 6 is equivalent to a grade B and grades 7-9 are equivalent to A/A*. Full exams will be taken in the summer at the end of two years of study.

A. Choices are usually made in January/February of Year 8.

A. Reasons for choosing a subject include:

• Enjoying it.
• Finding it interesting.
• Being good at it.
• Teachers indicating that you will do well at it.
• The subject is needed or useful for future career ideas.

Ensure you read the course information in your Year 8 information booklet. You need to make sure courses suit your own personal learning style, so think about the way you learn best. Check out how each subject is taught and whether you are assessed by coursework or an examination (or both).

Also, discuss the courses available with parents/carers, family and other people, such as subject teachers, your form tutor/Head of House for general advice, Mr Edwards (Deputy Headteacher) and the school’s careers adviser, Mr Silgram.

Mr Silgram can be contacted by telephone on 0121 566 6444, extension 27035, or by email: sil@moseley.bham.sch.uk

You should not choose a subject just because your friends are doing it!

A. Yes. You will also have an opportunity to attend, with your parents/carers, a Year 8 Pathways Evening, which will give further information about the options on offer and how the process works.

Additionally, during school time, there will be PSHE careers lessons to provide an opportunity for you to explore options available and to see how subjects relate to careers. Although you don’t need to decide what career you want just yet, giving it some thought may help with Year 8 options.

For further information, you could also check the icould videos.

A. You can use the eCLIPS program to investigate this. Click login (top right) and enter the school password (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram). Once you have logged on, go to “Information & Advice”, choose “Education” and then choose the relevant subject leaflet (such as art and design).

You could also use the eCLIPS job families to find related careers. Go to “Job Groups” and choose the ones that interest you. For example, if you want to explore careers related to art and design, go to the “Design, arts and crafts” job family.

Alternatively, use the National Careers Service Job Profiles to check out careers.

Additionally, check out BBC Bitesize to check out where your favourite subjects could take you.

Finally, check out Kudos . If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram). You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password). Then go to the starting point “Explore subjects”. Use to check out careers linked to subjects that you like.

A. Use the Kudos software program. If you have not previously used Kudos you need to go to the section Not signed up yet? and enter the licence code (available from your form tutor or Mr Silgram. You will then be able to create your own account (using your own username and password).

To check if specific subjects are needed for a particular career, go to “EXPLORE CAREERS” to search for a specific career you want to check out.

A. Use the Kudos software program. See previous question for details about how to log-on.

Then go to “MY FUTURE”. Answer a series of questions and Kudos will come up with a list of careers for you to consider.

A: Yes, Moseley School employs its own careers adviser. Mr Silgram is a qualified careers adviser and a registered professional with the Career Development Institute.

Mr Silgram provides impartial (unbiased) information, advice and guidance (IAG) to help students make an informed decision about their future options and career choices.

1:1 and small group careers meetings are available with Mr Silgram. The after-school Careers Club also provides careers support to all students.

Mr Silgram can be contacted by telephone on 0121 566 6444, extension 27035, or by email: sil@moseley.bham.sch.uk

A range of careers information is available in the LRC and the sixth form library. For more details go to Useful websites & information

A. Yes, support is available from the National Careers Service. Their careers advisers can talk to you about your choices online or over the phone on 0800 100 900. Advisers are available from 8 am to 10 pm.

Also, you can get help from Birmingham Careers Service if:

• You have left school.
• Are aged 16 to 19 (up to 25 if you have a learning difficulty or disability).
• Are unemployed and looking for a college course, job, training or apprenticeship.

This service is available at their Birmingham Careers Service outreach venues.