Careers through each year
Our careers programme develops throughout Years 7–13, helping students build their understanding of the world of work and make informed decisions at each stage of their education. Students take part in age-appropriate careers learning, encounters with employers and education providers, and opportunities to explore future pathways.
Years 7–9
During Years 7–9, students begin to explore their interests, strengths and future aspirations. Careers education is supported through PSHCE, tutor activities and the wider curriculum, helping students understand how different subjects connect to future careers.
Students use Unifrog to explore careers and pathways and develop their understanding of the opportunities available to them. As students approach the end of Key Stage 3, careers learning also supports them in making informed choices about their Year 9 Options.
Years 10–11
During Years 10 and 11, students develop the skills and knowledge they need to prepare for their next steps after GCSEs. This includes exploring post-16 pathways, developing CV, application and interview skills, and learning about workplace expectations and employability.
Students continue to use Unifrog to research opportunities and are supported through careers activities, work-related experiences and careers guidance to make informed choices about sixth form, college, apprenticeships and other pathways.
Years 12–13
In the Sixth Form, careers education focuses on preparing students for successful progression beyond North Oxfordshire Academy. Students receive support to explore university, apprenticeships, degree apprenticeships and employment, alongside opportunities to develop their employability skills and experience the workplace.
This includes careers guidance, employer encounters, work experience and support with applications and interviews. Detailed information about university applications, UCAS and post-18 pathways is available in our Sixth Form UCAS and Careers section.