Careers Guidance

• Strategic Objective 1
  Embed Careers across the curriculum with all staff being aware of their role.

• Strategic Objective 2
  Create a clear, progressive careers learning journey for students, supported by strong systems to track, monitor, and gather feedback on its impact.

• Strategic Objective 3
  Students have experiences of the workplace and encounters with employers to build on their cultural capital, grow, and have a clear vision for their future.

 Careers Lead

·        Strategic Lead CEIAG across the Academy - 

·        Named Member of ALT with responsibility for CEIAG - Raheela Aslam - CEIG ALT Lead

·        Develop and implement CEIAG strategy within the Academy

·        Ensure engagement with all stakeholders include LA, FE and HE providers, SLT, Teachers, support staff, parents, students and local employers and businesses

·        Monitor, report, review and evaluate impact of CEIAG

·        Update Careers page on Website

·        Editor of Careers Magazine

·        Establish and develop links with Post-16 providers and employers

·        Ensure LMI is accessible and up to date for all stakeholders

·        Communication with stakeholders

·        CPD Lead of CEIAG

·        Unifrog and Careers platform Lead

·        Promote Careers across the curriculum

·        Report to ALT/ Academy Council on CEIAG

·        KS3 KS4 PD programmes (inc Unifrog and CEIAG sessions)

·        Complete Compass Evaluation Tool - monitoring of the delivery of the 8 Gatsby Benchmarks.

·        Ensuring colleges and apprenticeship providers have access to the Academy (see Baker Clause Statement)

Sajid Patel – School Careers Advisor (Skills House) 

E: sajid.patel@bradford.gov.uk 

T: 01274 365020

Raheela Aslam - CEIAG ALT Lead

Raheela.Aslam@oasislisterpark.org

T:01274 365020

·        Provide independent careers advice to students in year 11 and others when needed.

·        Provide the Academy with an action plan for each students who has received independent 1:1 careers advice and

·        Record the action plan and the outcomes of 1:1 meetings.

·        To liaise with the careers lead/SENCO regarding careers advice and guidance and to inform them about courses, apprenticeship opportunities and possible programmes for the most vulnerable.

·        To keep accurate up-to-date destinations data after 1:1 careers advice and guidance meetings.

All Year 11 students receive a 1:1 guidance interview by a qualified practitioner.

Vulnerable students are identified in Year 10 and receive additional support from the local authority.

Student Entitlement

We work hard to ensure students take their future destination very seriously and are well informed. We have a careers programme that builds on this knowledge year by year, starting in Year 7.

Year 7: Students begin to consider their career aspirations in Year 7 when they focus on enterprise. Raising Aspirations for University and inspiring students for careers and post 16 options.

Year 8: In year 8 students will start to look at career routes, which will empower them to be able to make their KS4 option choices.

Years: 9, 10 and 11 Students focus on analysing current skills and developing these skills for interviews and the world of work. Enabling students to have the right knowledge and understanding to be able to consider their options for continuing education, training or work after Year 11.

This can include:

• Years 9, 10 and 11 Career Interviews
• College courses, applications and university
• Training and apprenticeships
• Part-time jobs and job-hunting
• Guidance on voluntary work experience

Click on the following link to view our student charter: Careers Charter

Our Approach to Careers Education (CEIAG)

At Oasis Academy Lister Park, we use Compass, the national careers benchmarking tool, to regularly assess and strengthen our Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) provision. This helps us measure our progress against the Gatsby Benchmarks and identify areas for improvement throughout the academic year.

 How We Review and Improve Our Careers Provision

We are committed to delivering a careers programme that supports students, empowers staff, and keeps parents and carers fully informed. To ensure our provision remains high‑quality and impactful, we will:

• Review our progress against the Gatsby Benchmarks at key points during the year.
• Gather feedback from students, staff, and parents/carers to understand how well our careers activities meet their needs.
• Monitor the impact of our CEIAG action plan, using feedback, participation data, and student destination information.
• Review all careers activities, policies, and systems in September each year, ensuring they remain relevant, inclusive, and aligned with student aspirations.

 Working Together

By involving students, staff, and families in shaping our careers programme, we aim to create a supportive and informed community where every young person can explore opportunities, build confidence, and plan for a successful future.

Working With Local Colleges and Post‑16 Providers

We are committed to giving every student clear, high‑quality information about their next steps after Year 11. To support this, we work closely with a wide range of local colleges, sixth forms, apprenticeship providers, and technical education providers.

How Students Benefit

• Year 10 and Year 11 students meet a variety of post‑16 organisations through talks, workshops, and guidance sessions.
• These sessions help students understand different pathways, entry requirements, and the skills needed for future success.
• Students are encouraged to ask questions, explore options, and begin planning their next steps with confidence.

 How Staff and Parents/Carers Are Involved

• Providers are invited to attend Parent Evenings and school events, giving parents/carers the chance to speak directly with colleges and training organisations.
• Staff use these opportunities to strengthen guidance, support conversations at home, and ensure students receive consistent information from school and family.

 Our Commitment

By bringing a wide range of post‑16 providers into the academy, we aim to create an informed, supportive environment where students, families, and staff work together to help every young person make confident, ambitious decisions about their future.

Click on this link to view options available : Options After Year 11

Labour Market Information (LMI) helps students, parents/carers, and staff understand the changing world of work and the opportunities available locally, regionally, and nationally. At Oasis Academy Lister Park, we use LMI to support students in making informed, ambitious decisions about their future pathways.

 Why LMI Matters

LMI provides clear insights into:

• Growing and emerging industries
• Skills and qualifications employers are looking for
• Local job opportunities in Bradford and West Yorkshire
• Typical salaries and career progression routes
• Apprenticeship, technical, and higher‑education options

This information helps students explore realistic pathways, understand future trends, and plan confidently for life after school.

 How Students Use LMI

• Students access LMI through careers lessons, Unifrog activities, employer encounters, and curriculum links.
• Year 10 and Year 11 use LMI to support post‑16 choices, including apprenticeships, sixth form, college, and technical routes.
• LMI helps students connect their subjects to real careers and understand the skills needed in the modern workplace.

 How Staff and Parents/Carers Use LMI

• Staff use LMI during careers guidance sessions, and curriculum planning.
• Parents/carers can use LMI to support conversations at home and help students explore future options.
• Our website provides easy access to reliable LMI sources so families can stay informed.

 Useful LMI Links

These trusted sources provide up‑to‑date labour market information:

• West Yorkshire Labour Market Information https://www.westyorkshire-ca.gov.uk/skills/labour-market-information (westyorkshire-ca.gov.uk in Bing)
• National Careers Service – Job Profiles https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk in Bing)
• LMI for All (National Labour Market Data) https://www.lmiforall.org.uk
• Apprenticeships Information https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk (apprenticeships.gov.uk in Bing)
• Unifrog Careers & Destinations Platform https://www.unifrog.org

 Our Commitment

We are dedicated to making LMI accessible, easy to understand, and relevant to our community. By using high‑quality labour market data, we aim to empower every student to make informed choices and feel confident about the opportunities ahead.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships

Apprenticeships and traineeships offer valuable pathways for students who want to learn practical skills, gain real workplace experience, and work towards recognised qualifications. At Oasis Academy Lister Park, we ensure students, staff, and parents/carers have access to accurate, up‑to‑date information about these routes so young people can make confident decisions about their future.

What Are Apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships combine paid work with training, allowing students to earn a wage while gaining industry‑specific qualifications. They are available at different levels, including Intermediate, Advanced, Higher, and Degree apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships are ideal for students who:

• Prefer hands‑on learning
• Want to develop practical skills in a real workplace
• Are ready to take on responsibility and build independence
• Want to progress into skilled employment or higher education

 What Are Traineeships?

Traineeships are short programmes designed to help young people develop the skills and experience needed to progress into an apprenticeship or employment. They typically include:

• High‑quality work experience
• English and maths support (if needed)
• Employability skills such as CV building and interview preparation

Traineeships are ideal for students who:

• Need more experience before applying for an apprenticeship
• Want to build confidence in a workplace setting
• Are unsure which career pathway to pursue

 How Students Benefit

• Year 10 and Year 11 students receive guidance on apprenticeships and traineeships through careers lessons, Unifrog, employer encounters, and post‑16 provider talks.
• Students can meet apprenticeship providers during school events and Academic Review Days.
• Staff support students in exploring entry requirements, application processes, and progression routes.

 How Parents/Carers and Staff Are Involved

• Parents/carers can speak directly with apprenticeship and training providers during school events and review days.
• Staff use reliable apprenticeship information to guide conversations, support applications, and help students choose the right pathway.
• Our website provides trusted links so families can explore opportunities together at home.

 Useful Apprenticeship & Traineeship Links

These sources provide clear, up‑to‑date information:

• Find an Apprenticeship (Government Service) https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk (apprenticeships.gov.uk in Bing)
• Search and Apply for Apprenticeships https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship (gov.uk in Bing)
• Amazing Apprenticeships (Guides for Students & Parents) https://amazingapprenticeships.com
• National Careers Service – Apprenticeship Information https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/apprenticeships (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk in Bing)
• Unifrog Apprenticeship Tools https://www.unifrog.org

 Our Commitment

We are dedicated to ensuring students understand all post‑16 pathways, including apprenticeships and traineeships. By working closely with local providers and offering clear guidance to students, staff, and families, we aim to support every young person in choosing a pathway that matches their skills, interests, and future ambitions.

Working With Local Employers

Local employers play a vital role in helping our students understand the world of work and the skills needed for future success. At Oasis Academy Lister Park, we actively build strong partnerships with businesses across Bradford and West Yorkshire to ensure students, staff, and parents/carers benefit from high‑quality employer encounters.

 Why Employer Engagement Matters

Meaningful encounters with employers help students to:

• Learn about different industries, job roles, and career pathways
• Understand the skills, qualifications, and behaviours employers value
• Gain insight into real workplaces and modern working practices
• Build confidence, motivation, and aspiration for their future

These encounters support key Gatsby Benchmarks, including employer encounters, workplace experiences, and career information .

 How Students Engage with Employers

Students meet local employers through:

• Workplace visits and tours
• Guest speaker sessions and industry talks
• Experiences of the work
• Mock interviews and employability workshops
• Careers fairs

These activities help students connect their learning to real careers and understand the opportunities available in the local labour market.

 How Staff and Parents/Carers Are Involved

• Staff work closely with employers to plan meaningful encounters that link to curriculum subjects and student needs.
• Our partnerships ensure families receive accurate, up‑to‑date information about local job sectors and future pathways.

 Our Commitment to Local Employers

We welcome employers from all sectors to work with us. By partnering with the academy, employers can:

• Inspire young people and raise aspirations
• Support the development of future talent
• Strengthen community links
• Share industry knowledge with staff and students

National guidance highlights that employer involvement brings significant benefits to both young people and businesses, including improved understanding of career pathways and stronger local talent pipelines .

 Interested in Working with Us?

Local employers who wish to support our careers programme can get involved through:

• Talks and presentations
• Workplace visits
• Work experience placements
• Mentoring
• Participation in careers fairs and events

To express interest or learn more, please contact our Careers Lead via the school office.

Supporting students in planning their future is a shared effort between school, families, and the wider community. At Oasis Academy Lister Park, we provide clear guidance, practical tools, and reliable information to help students and parents/carers explore post‑16 options, build employability skills, and feel confident about next steps.

Post‑16 Pathways

Students have a wide range of routes available after Year 11. We help families understand each option so they can make informed decisions together.

 Available Pathways

• Sixth Form / A‑Levels – academic subjects leading to university or higher apprenticeships
• Further Education Colleges – vocational courses, technical qualifications, and blended programmes
• Apprenticeships – paid work combined with training and recognised qualifications
• Traineeships – short programmes to build skills and experience before an apprenticeship
• Technical Qualifications (T‑Levels) – industry‑focused courses with extended work placements
• Employment with Training – entry‑level roles that include accredited training

 Useful Links for Exploring Post‑16 Options

• National Careers Service – Explore Careers https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk in Bing)
• Find Apprenticeships https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk (apprenticeships.gov.uk in Bing)
• T‑Levels Information https://www.tlevels.gov.uk
• UCAS (Future Choices & Career Guides) https://www.ucas.com

Building a CV and Covering Letter

Creating a strong CV and covering letter helps students stand out when applying for apprenticeships, part‑time work, or college courses. We provide guidance in school, and families can support this at home using the resources below.

 CV Support

A good CV should include:

• Personal details
• Education and qualifications
• Skills and strengths
• Work experience or volunteering
• Achievements and interests

 Covering Letter Support

A covering letter should:

• Introduce the student
• Explain why they are applying
• Highlight relevant skills
• Show enthusiasm for the role or course

 Useful CV & Covering Letter Links

• National Careers Service – CV Builder https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/cv (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk in Bing)
• National Careers Service – Covering Letters https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/covering-letter (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk in Bing)
• BBC Bitesize – How to Write a CV https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zr8fcwx (bbc.co.uk in Bing)
• Prospects – CV Examples https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/cvs-and-cover-letters (prospects.ac.uk in Bing)

Careers Conversations at Home

Parents and carers play a key role in supporting student’s future choices. Positive conversations at home help build confidence, motivation, and ambition.

 How Families Can Support

• Talk regularly about interests, strengths, and future goals
• Explore job profiles together using trusted websites
• Attend school careers events and Parents Evenings
• Encourage students to try new experiences, volunteering, or part‑time work
• Help students research entry requirements and local opportunities

 Helpful Links for Parents/Carers

• Parent Guide to Apprenticeships (Amazing Apprenticeships) https://amazingapprenticeships.com/parents
• Careers Advice for Parents (Careers Pilot) https://www.careerpilot.org.uk/parent-zone (careerpilot.org.uk in Bing)
• Unifrog – Parent/Carer Support https://www.unifrog.org

Student Support in School

Students receive careers guidance through:

• Careers lessons and Unifrog activities
• Employer encounters and workplace visits
• Post‑16 provider talks
• One‑to‑one guidance interviews
• Careers fairs and themed events

We encourage students to ask questions, explore options, and use the resources available to them both in school and at home.

Our Commitment

We aim to make careers information clear, accessible, and supportive for every student and family. By providing practical tools, trusted links, and personalised guidance, we help young people make confident, informed decisions about their future.

We want students and families to have easy access to reliable, up‑to‑date careers information. The websites below support students in exploring job roles, planning post‑16 pathways, building employability skills, and understanding the world of work. These resources are suitable for all year groups and can be used at home or in school.

Websites for Exploring Careers

These sites help students discover job profiles, skills, qualifications, and real‑life career stories.

• Success at School – Careers advice, job profiles, employer information, and student guidance. https://successatschool.org
• eCLIPS – Impartial careers information with over 1,400 job profiles and labour market data. https://www.eclips-online.co.uk (eclips-online.co.uk in Bing) (school login required)
• First Careers – Behind‑the‑scenes videos and job profiles for younger students and KS3. https://www.firstcareers.co.uk (firstcareers.co.uk in Bing)
• CareerThread – A platform used by schools to connect students with employers, alumni, and work experience opportunities. https://careerthread.com

Websites for Post‑16 Options

These sites help students explore sixth form, college, apprenticeships, traineeships, and technical routes.

• National Careers Service – Job profiles, skills assessments, and post‑16 guidance. https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk in Bing)
• Find an Apprenticeship – Search and apply for apprenticeships across the UK. https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk (apprenticeships.gov.uk in Bing)
• T‑Levels Information – Details on technical qualifications and industry placements. https://www.tlevels.gov.uk
• UCAS – Information on university, apprenticeships, and future choices. https://www.ucas.com

Websites for Parents and Carers

These sites help families support careers conversations at home and understand post‑16 pathways.

• Amazing Apprenticeships – Parent Zone https://amazingapprenticeships.com/parents
• CareerPilot – Parent Zone https://www.careerpilot.org.uk/parent-zone (careerpilot.org.uk in Bing)
• Unifrog – Parent/Carer Support https://www.unifrog.org

Our Commitment

We aim to make careers information accessible, clear, and supportive for all students and families. These websites provide trusted guidance to help young people explore opportunities, build confidence, and make informed decisions about their future.

After Year 11, students can continue their learning through a range of Further Education (FE) pathways. These routes help young people build skills, gain qualifications, and prepare for future careers.

 What Further Education Includes

• Sixth Form / A‑Levels Academic subjects that can lead to university, apprenticeships, or employment.
• Further Education Colleges Vocational courses, technical qualifications, and blended programmes linked to real careers.
• T‑Levels Technical qualifications that include classroom learning and a long industry placement.
• Apprenticeships Paid work combined with training and recognised qualifications.
• Traineeships Short programmes to help students build skills and experience before moving into an apprenticeship.

 How We Support Students

• Guidance through careers lessons and Unifrog
• Talks from local colleges and training providers
• Support during Parents Evenings
• Help with applications, interviews, and choosing the right pathway

 Useful Links for Exploring FE Options

• National Careers Service – Post‑16 Choices https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk in Bing)
• Find Apprenticeships https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk (apprenticeships.gov.uk in Bing)
• T‑Levels Information https://www.tlevels.gov.uk
• UCAS – Future Choices https://www.ucas.com
• Bradford College 
• Leeds City College 
• Keighley College 
• Shipley College 
• Bradford New College 

Our Commitment

We aim to make post‑16 information simple, clear, and accessible. By working closely with local providers and supporting families, we help every student choose a pathway that matches their interests, strengths, and future goals.

Oasis Academy Lister Park: Provider Access Policy

This policy statement sets out the Academy’s arrangements for managing the access of providers to pupils at the school for the purpose of giving them information about the provider’s education or training offer. This complies with the Academy’s legal obligations under Section 42B of the Education Act 1997. Pupil entitlement – all pupils in year 11 are entitled:

• to find out about technical education qualifications and apprenticeships opportunities, as part of a careers programme which provides information on the full range of education and training options available at each transition point;
• to hear from a range of local providers about the opportunities they offer, including technical education and apprenticeships – through options events, assemblies and group discussions and taster events;
• to understand how to make applications for the full range of academic and technical courses.

Opportunities for access to a number of events, integrated into the Academy careers programme, will offer providers an opportunity to come into the Academy to speak to pupils and/or their parents/carers when any events take place.

• Please click here to read the OCL Careers Guidance Policy.
• Please click here to view Oasis Academy Lister Park CEIAG provider access policy.