At a time when schools are under fire from Ofsted over not giving the right careers advice, a shining example of good practice was recognised last week.
Having caught the judges’ eyes with their ‘A La Carte’ careers advice spanning everything from Apprenticeships to Oxbridge, Calderstones School in Liverpool, took the coveted Career Aspiration Award at the region’s hotly contended Educate Awards.
Teachers and professionals from across Merseyside, Lancashire and Cheshire gathered at the awards dinner to recognise the many achievements of schools across the North West.
The Career Aspiration Award was awarded to Calderstones School in recognition of them helping pupils and parents understand the different career pathways open to school leavers. The advice features apprenticeships alongside other options that are available at 16.
Deputy Head, Sharon Ellis, says: ‘We do everything that we possibly can to help pupils forge a successful future. Career advice is a priority in the school and it’s amazing to get the recognition through the award.’
For the third year in succession the award has been sponsored by the umbrella organisation for 80 training providers. Greater Merseyside Learning Providers’ Federation (GMLPF) Chief Executive James Glendenning says: ‘Schools are responsible for offering robust and comprehensive careers advice to their pupils including viable career alternatives to staying on at school’.
‘The award puts the spotlight on schools that are taking their responsibilities seriously. We sponsor this award to highlight good practice and provide inspiration to other schools.' he said.
GMLPF and its members offer support services to schools to coach and assist them in raising awareness of apprenticeships as a valid route into a career.
Mr Glendenning added: ‘Not all young people are suited to sitting more exams. A vocational approach, such as an apprenticeship will help them work towards a qualification at their own pace, while getting work experience and a wage’.
The award was one of 19 presented on the night. Categories included Outstanding Commitment to Sport, Creative and Innovative Literacy and Science Project of The Year.
For more information about the GMLPF and the support it provides for schools, visit the website at www.gmlpf.net
