Dear Parent, Carer or Guardian

Progression Planning

I really hope this email finds you well. As we approach half-term I wanted to share with you all the activities that are coming up to help your young person choose their next steps after Varndean.

As you know this is a critical time and it can be confusing. Whatever they decide now and in September, it isn't set; they can change their mind through all of next year and we will help them. Encourage them to think broadly and look at all routes open to them.

I've attached a copy of all the events coming up (perfect for the fridge)! As you can see, all students register for UCAS - this is not because we expect all of them to go to university, but it's good practice for form filling and a lot who say they definitely do not want to go can change their mind! Starting the form in Year 1 means they won't have too much to catch up on. I've also set out below the help in respect of different pathways.

UCAS pathway - next steps

• Register on UCAS via tutorial
• Research Uni's and courses over summer - go to open days
• September - allocated their own HE mentor to guide them through the process / attend Personal Statement workshops.

Employment - next steps

• Invited to the Careers Starter Programme from September - targeted advice from our Careers Advisers.

Apprenticeships - next steps

• Attend the Futures Fair - get contacts
• Larger firms open degree apprenticeship applications from October to recruit for the following autumn (same timeline as university application process)

Gap year - next steps

• Attend the Futures fair - get contacts
• Make individual career appointments

If you have any questions at this point then please do email careers@varndean.ac.uk

All best wishes

Jo Hambleton, Assistant Principal

Progression Planning key dates