Careers & Guidance

Swanshurst Sixth Form Students go on to various pathways including higher education either at universities or specialist colleges, directly into employment or apprenticeships.  Students have many opportunities to enrich their learning to help them with their Post 18 Progression choices. 

All students take part in a clear and structured programme that utilises the skills, qualifications and experience they need to meet the demands of the future work force and we recognise that it is important to ensure that young people gain and all take part in a work experience opportunity to support their progression.

You will find a wealth of expertise is available to the students. Not only are our own staff and personal tutors available, but a range of visitors contribute to the advice and guidance:

• Speakers from Higher Education institutions and the professions including practice interviews
• Specialist advice from training providers
• Presentations and interviews with external careers advisors including CV writing guidance
• Presentations with Q&A from apprenticeship providers

A variety of trips and visits to universities and exhibitions both general and subject specific is arranged by staff and there are regular personal interview sessions where students can discuss their progress individually with staff.

At Swanshurst Sixth Form we recognise that between the ages of 16 and 18 students progress to become independent learners and mature citizens. Important first steps are taken towards further study at University, professional training or employment and we aim to create an atmosphere and provide opportunities where these can take place successfully.

University Access Programmes, Summer Schools & Internships

Swanshurst Sixth Form actively promotes University Access Programmes, university summer schools and employer internships to our year 12 and 13 students. Well established links with the programmes below have seen many of our students enjoy the successes and benefits that these opportunities have given them.

University Access Programmes

University Access Programmes are designed and delivered by universities and help year 12 students make informed choices about their future; equipping them with the knowledge, experience and skills needed to be successful in accessing higher education.

University Access Programmes are completed alongside A Level/BTEC Level 3/T Level studies and aim to help Year 12 students, who meet specific criteria, gain a place at university, and include a mixture of online and on-campus events, workshops, academic assignments and academic mentoring.

Aston University – Pathways to the Professions Programmes – (Medicine, Healthcare or Engineering and Technology STEM)

University of Birmingham – Pathways to Birmingham Programme (Inspired, Routes to the Professions, Academic Enrichment Programme and Access to Birmingham - A2B – year 13 only)

Realising Opportunities - (15 x Russell Group – RIUs research intensive universities – a unique collaboration of leading research universities from across the UK working together to promote fair access to university and professions)

Warwick Access Programmes – (Warwick Scholars, Pathways to Professions, Realising Opportunities)

University Summer Schools and Employer Internships

University Summers School give students the opportunity to meet other like-minded young people, explore subjects and a chance to experience what university life is like.

Internships help students gain first-hand experience with top employers and develop the skills needed to achieve their aspirations.

Social Mobility Foundation – (internships with top employers)

The Sutton Trust Summer School – (UK university summer schools)

UNIQ – University of Oxford Summer School – (university summer school)

Throughout year 12 students are encouraged to apply for employer engagement opportunities and programmes to support their progression and these have included the Pinsent Masons Business Society Programme, Medic Mentors, Future Leaders Programme, as well as taking part in the employability skils workshops led by KPMG.

For further information please click here.