Destinations
At Pimlico Academy Sixth Form we know that the choices students make about their next steps are highly important and will shape their futures. With this in mind in all that we do, we aim to ensure that all students are exposed to a full range of options from the start of Y12, so that they can make fully informed decisions when it comes to post-18 choices.
The message for our students is about ‘Options not Choices’. That all students should apply to University to keep the option open, even where we are also supporting them to apply to top Apprenticeships too. We run an annual careers fair for all Sixth Formers in which they network with over 50 different employers in both Y12 and again in Y13, to keep them evaluating whether they have made the best career choice for them.
Year 12
We know that University and Careers support has to start in Year 12. In order to be able to make best possible decisions for them, students must have exposure and support throughout Y12.
- From the start of Year 12 as careers advisor meets with students to explore their preferred career pathways.
- Students are sent opportunities weekly by our Head of Year 12 in line with their careers ambitions. We also encourage students to explore opportunities outside of their current pathways as we know that minds will change and only if they have been exposed to a full range of opportunities will they be able to make fully informed decisions.
- All students have the option to complete an EPQ which is supported by our librarian, with weekly sessions.
- All students with a 7+ average grade at GCSE join our Scholars Programme, where they are supported with exploring their options and preparing to apply to the top universities.
- All students with a 7+ average grade at GCSE also join the Pimlico AcademyEarly Entry Cohort with bespoke sessions to equip them with the skills to be ready for undergraduate degrees at competitive universities and courses including, Oxford, Cambridge, Medicine, Dentsitry
- All students in Y12 have a weekly enrichment session in which they hear from guest speakers, explore different career options and are supported to apply for opportunities.
- Students are all supported to apply for University Summer Schools so that they can make fully informed decisions on the right course and university environment for them.
Year 13
In Y13 we continue to send weekly opportunities to students and expose them to different careers.
All students are supported to apply to University and Apprenticeships (where they express interest). Students have weekly sessions to support them through the UCAS process:
- Writing a personal statement. ( students also work with Into-University and can organise one-to-one support with the librarian or careers advisor).
- Choosing their five courses.
- Early entry candidates; interview practice and assessment practice.
- Choosing firm and insurance.
- What to do on the day if they have not met their offer with dedicated staff going through clearing with the all students. Every student leaves with a pathway secured.
- Support with adjustment- What to do on the day if they have exceeded their original offer and would like to apply elsewhere
Useful Links for UCAS
What to do if you did better than expected
What to do if you are going through clearing
Students wishing to apply to Apprenticeships
Students wishing to apply to Apprenticeships are supported through:
- One-to-one support with our careers advisor.
- Weekly opportunities emailed to them, including apprenticeship opportunities with GoldmanSachs, PWC, P&G.
- Supported through every stage of the application process with practice interviews, assessment centre support and professional skills development.
Useful Links for Apprenticeships
Useful Links for Apprenticeships: