Aims
Understanding the world of work and the jobs of the future is vital to ensure young people are prepared to engage in successful courses and careers. In St Mary’s College we seek out every opportunity for young people to expand their knowledge and learn about new careers and industries.
The Irish News awarded the ‘Careers Inspiration Award 2019’ to St Mary’s College in recognition of the extensive careers support provided. The award acknowledges the strong links the school has developed with local businesses and leaders. This achievement is proudly shared by all staff of the school who use their expertise in order to encourage and promote careers in their subjects.
Staff
- Mrs Caroline Rogan (Head of Department)
- Miss Jennifer Scott
- Miss Marie Curran
- Mr Sean McBride
- Elizabeth Melaugh
- Anne Richardson
KS3
We strive to ensure that every pupil learns vital employability skills through their school life at St Mary’s College.
Beginning in Year 8 pupils explore futures in the Local and Global Economy; personal career planning; and entrepreneurship. This ensures all pupils develop their individual interests and aspirations that leads to fulfilling careers of the future.
At Key Stage 3 Learning for Life & Work (LLW) gives students the opportunity to study ‘Employability’.
- Pupils identify their strengths and skills, and they begin the process of career exploration and planning.
- They are supported as they develop their research skills and investigate enterprise and entrepreneurship.
- Student research jobs and identify the skills required for each career.
- In Year 10 pupils will have one dedicated careers lesson to assist them in making choices for their GCSEs.
- They investigate learning styles and match their style to a range of jobs and subjects.
- Pupils learn about employment trends and types of jobs in the local area and the global job market.
GCSE
A commitment to lifelong learning and understanding the local skills needs are essential requirements for all pupils entering the world of work in the 21st century. At St Mary’s we work closely with the Careers Service NI to deliver personal careers interviews and deliver impartial advice.
In Year 11 and Year 12 students most pupils have a dedicated lesson of careers. Pupils who study GCSE Learning for Life & Work cover employability. All students develop their employability skills through self-evaluation, practice interviews, investigating careers and using the latest careers tools such as Xello.
In Year 12 pupils meet individually with a Careers Service adviser to receive support and guidance for their future careers. Some students have the chance to complete work experience in year 12. At St Mary’s all Year 12 students and their parents will be invited to an ‘Options Evening’ where we will outline the subject choices for Post -16 study and recommend a path of study suited to every individual girl.
Post 16
Pupils at St Mary’s College continue to blaze a trail in pursuing careers in all industries. A crucial step to enabling our young people to fulfil their potential and reach their ambitions is working in partnership with our local Universities.
Pupils have the opportunity to visit and take part in University outreach schemes. This includes Queen’s University Pathways Opportunity Programme. Sixth form pupils have regular talks from speakers about courses, colleges, finance and apprenticeships.
At St Mary’s College we offer an innovative schedule of work experience in partnership with our local employers in Year 13. This gives young people a real insight into the world of work and it allows them to build upon their employability skills.
In Year 14 pupils are guided through the range of opportunities available to them in their chosen career path. Students apply for Universities and Higher Education Colleges as well as further education colleges and apprenticeships. Students are assisted through the application process and provided with advice and support throughout.
Extra Curricular
At St Mary’s College pupils experience an extensive schedule of guest speakers, industrial visits and careers events throughout the year. Pupils have the opportunity to engage in events such as University talks and taster days, STEM careers events, UCAS support and information sessions.