FAQs for Parents and Guardians

Colleges typically offer a structured careers programme including one‑to‑one guidance, careers events, employer engagement, application support and access to online careers resources. Our fantastic careers team also support with information on gap years, CV writing, mock interviews and job hunting.

Students can usually book individual appointments with a qualified careers adviser through Student Services or their student portal.

Yes. Careers guidance is impartial, focused on the student’s best interests and delivered in confidence, except where safeguarding concerns apply.

Throughout the academic year, we provide careers fairs, employer talks, workshops, university visits and sector‑specific events throughout the year to support informed decision making.

Targeted support, additional guidance and early intervention help students rebuild confidence, review options and re‑engage with planning for next steps.

Initial awareness usually begins in Year 12, with more focused research and preparation in Year 13.

Students should consider course content, entry requirements, location, teaching style and career outcomes, rather than focusing only on league tables.

UCAS is the central application system for UK universities. Most applications are submitted during Year 13, with earlier deadlines for some courses.

Entry requirements vary widely by course and institution. Universities publish these clearly, and alternatives are available if results differ from expectations.

Students can apply for loans to cover tuition fees and living costs. Colleges provide advice and guidance to help families understand the process.

An apprenticeship is a paid job combined with formal training. Apprentices work for an employer while studying towards a recognised qualification.

Apprentices earn a wage and spend part of their time in structured training. Pay and study arrangements depend on the employer and apprenticeship level.

Apprenticeships can be competitive and applications may open at different times. Early preparation and regular searching are important.

Yes. They allow students to earn a qualification up to degree level while gaining experience and avoiding traditional student debt.

Colleges support students to use reputable national vacancy platforms and employer networks, as well as preparing strong applications.

Work experience helps students understand the workplace and develop skills. It can take place at different stages during college and for entry to some higher education courses, is essential to the application process. Students are encouraged to participate in work experience on their study days, college holidays or weekends.

Relevant experience can include part‑time work, volunteering, virtual placements and sector‑related activities. They will be supported by curriculum teams in self sourcing work placements but can also receive advice from our Work Placement Team, based in Mardale, next door to Student Services.

Yes. Employers and universities value evidence of skills such as reliability, teamwork and communication, regardless of the setting. We recommend that students work a maximum of 8 hours per week alongside their studies to ensure that this additional commitment does not impact on their achievement.

Support is usually available through careers teams, placement coordinators and employer partnerships.

Reliability, communication, teamwork, initiative and willingness to learn are consistently valued across sectors.

Keep conversations open, ask questions rather than giving answers and encourage exploration rather than fixed outcomes.

Changing ideas is normal. It often reflects growing self‑awareness and better understanding of options.

Listening, encouraging research and supporting independence is usually more effective than directing decisions.

College websites, national careers services and trusted education and employer organisations provide accurate information.

Student Services or the careers team can advise on support, events and guidance available. You are also able to contact your son/daughter’s Progress Mentor for support.