How Abbey Gate College prepares students for life beyond the classroom
At Abbey Gate College, it is believed that education should inspire curiosity, build confidence, and open doors – not just deliver exam results. The Careers Programme reflects this wider ambition: to help every student explore their potential, develop essential life and workplace skills, and feel ready and resilient for whatever path they choose after school.
From Year 7 right through to Sixth Form, students embark on a thoughtfully designed careers journey. It is a progressive, hands-on programme that combines in-depth guidance with real-world experience – helping students to think ahead, aim high, and take meaningful steps toward their future.
GUIDANCE WITH PURPOSE
Careers support at Abbey Gate College is never a one-off event or occasional talk – it is embedded into school life. Students receive personalised, age-appropriate guidance at every stage, from exploring different sectors in the lower years and receiving personalised guidance about GCSE choices, to receiving one-to-one university or apprenticeship support in Sixth Form. Regular careers fairs, industry workshops, and talks from employers and alumni provide inspiration and up-to-date insights into the world beyond school.
And it is not just theory, it is practical, too. The work experience programme in Years 10 and 12 gives students the chance to step into real workplaces, develop skills, and reflect on their personal passions and ambitions.
INVESTED IN EVERY STUDENT’S FUTURE
While the school is proud of its academic standards, it is equally committed to preparing students for life. From CV writing and interview practice to decision-making and networking, the Careers Programme empowers students to make informed, confident choices.
As Mrs Jenkinson, Head of Careers, puts it: “Our aim is to open doors, not just point to them. We want students to feel confident and excited about their future – and we support them every step of the way.”
STRONG LINKS, STRONG IMPRESSIONS
Abbey Gate College is proud of its partnerships with a wide range of employers, apprenticeship providers, and universities, in addition to excellent support from a dedicated, external Careers Counselling service. These links ensure that the programme is not only relevant but dynamic – shaped by the world students will eventually enter.
The feedback received from work experience hosts is consistently glowing. One employer shared: “I would recruit him tomorrow if he needed a role. He would fit right in here, but I feel with his qualifications and analytical expertise, University needs to be his next great step.”
LOOKING AHEAD
The Careers Programme is one of the many ways Abbey Gate College prepares students not only to succeed in their next steps – but to thrive. Rooted in tradition, yet firmly forward- looking, the school remains committed to nurturing each student’s ambition, character, and confidence – preparing them for life, not just for exams.
