Our careers programme aims to develop students' knowledge of career education pathways, whilst also learning the skills they will need in order to have successful futures.

The Careers programme at Pool Academy aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to transition successfully into the next stages of education, employment, or training. We believe in encouraging students to dream big and broaden their aspirations, ensuring they are fully supported in making informed decisions about their futures. The goal is to support their and their families' well-being, helping students to lead happy, successful lives with fulfilling careers.

At Pool Academy, we provide meaningful encounters with employers from the local community and beyond. These encounters are designed to inspire our students and help them explore a range of career opportunities. We evaluate these interactions with all stakeholders to measure the impact on our students. Students will receive key guidance at important transition points in their education, allowing them to make informed decisions about their future. 

Pool Academy ensures that the Careers programme meets the standards set out in the Gatsby Benchmarks. We strive to make a lasting impact on the students we work with and continue supporting them after they leave the academy through our alumni programme. This ongoing support helps students successfully transition into the next phase of their lives.

Key Stage 3: Building Foundations for Future Careers

• Introduce students to the world of work by exploring different industries, career pathways, and job roles.
• Develop essential research and information-gathering skills to support career exploration.
• Encourage self-awareness by identifying personal strengths, skills, and qualities.
• Support students in making well-informed choices when transitioning to Key Stage 4.
• Promote goal-setting, self-reflection, and action planning to enhance personal development and academic achievement.
• Challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about careers, encouraging open-minded decision-making.
• Equip students with the ability to navigate various career information sources, including digital platforms and ICT tools.
• Introduce students to the local labour market by exploring key industries in Cornwall and the surrounding area, such as tourism, marine industries, renewable energy, agriculture, and creative sectors.
   

Key Stage 4: Preparing for the Future

• Guide students in exploring career pathways and post-16 education, training, and employment options.
• Provide up-to-date insights into the Local Labour Market, helping students align their aspirations with real-world opportunities.
• Support students in making practical, well-reasoned decisions about their future pathways.
• Assist students in creating essential career documents such as CVs and personal action plans.
• Develop key employability skills, including interview techniques, application writing, and an understanding of equal opportunities in the workplace.
• Ensure a smooth transition from school to further education, apprenticeships, or employment by providing tailored guidance and support.