Ashton Park School

Careers

At Ashton Park School, we provide a dynamic and innovative career and employability programme to support all students. By providing significant, specialist support, we help our pupils develop crucial employability skills and make informed choices about potential future pathways.

‘Inspiration and Aspiration’

Preparing all our young people today for the challenges of tomorrow

Leadership of Careers

Careers Lead – Mr David Coates
Careers Advisor – Mrs Kathy Jemmott
Careers within PHSE/SMSC – Ms Serena Keough

The Careers team can be contacted in person via telephone 0117 3772777 or by email using the school email address mail@ashtonpark.net. indicating the subject e.g. Careers and for the attention of whom.

Introducing Kathy Jemmott our school Careers Coordinator

Kathy has one of the most important roles in ensuring, inspiring and guiding students to go on to meaningful 16+ and 18+ education, training and careers.

Kathy works alongside myself, the designated Careers Lead, to ensure high quality careers information, education and guidance and to achieve the 8 Gatsby Benchmarks as set by the government. She ensures that all pupils across the school receive appropriate careers information, education and guidance and are supported in their preparation for the world of work.

Kathy plans and organises our school Careers Fair as well as coordinates careers events for each year group. To do this she has successfully established and develop links with employers, FE colleges, apprenticeship providers, technical colleges and universities. She supports tutors, teachers, external partners and others who deliver careers education and guidance through lessons and workshops.

Most importantly Kathy work tirelessly with individuals in one to one careers interviews and small groups of pupils in careers related discussions providing impartial advice and guidance for the students ‘next step’. She ensures that disadvantaged students and students with special educational needs are fully supported when planning a career route or progression beyond Year 11

Careers News Articles

Careers 2023-2024 – What a successful year!

Ashton Park achieved all 8 Gatsby benchmarks, the framework for world-class careers provision – the average achievement of the benchmarks now stands at 5.5 out of 8 and only 19 per cent of schools and colleges had met all eight benchmarks. This is a great achievement and a reflection of the broad, structured and inclusive careers education at Ashton Park

So here’s a flavour of what’s been going on… Our careers programme ensures that all students in all year groups have a minimum entitlement to careers education. In each year students will have a careers ‘drop down day’ with a specific careers focus: Yr7 ‘Inspire’, Yr8 ‘Inform’, Yr9 ‘Explore’, Yr10 ‘Plan’, Yr11 ‘Decide’, Yr12 ‘Reflect’ and Yr13 ‘Specialise’. Each year group also has a careers module in Personal Development lessons. But this is only the tip of the iceberg! At Ashton Park we pride ourselves on going above and beyond and careers is no exception. There is always something careers related going on … These are just some of the extra workshops and events from this year

APS Annual Careers Fair – our in house careers fair with over 60 employers and education and training providers for all students in years 9-13
Work Experience - over 180 Yr 10 students spent a week experiencing the realities of the world of work
BEA Systems and Royal Air Force Stem Roadshow – hands on and interactive exploration of drone technology
Boeing Newton Room - flight-specific lessons for students aged 12 and older, aiming to inspire careers in the South West's aerospace sector
National Apprenticeship conference – students from years 10-13 had the opportunity to attend and meet a whole host of training providers
Tyntesfield NT careers experience – a hands-on look at the rane of jobs in the Heritage sector
Future Quest Realising Talent – a series of ten workshops focusing on all aspects of being the best student you can be and planning for your future
National Careers Week – Assembly, curriculum and tutor activities run by subject teachers and tutors raising awareness a range of jobs and the routes into them
Royal Navy cookery masterclass – demonstrations and practical cookery workshops along with information about working in the armed forces
Lloyds Bank finance workshops – making sure our students are financially savvy and the world of big business
Theatre makers drama workshops – focusing on working in the creative industry covering all aspects of planning, set design, costume, production and performance
Mac Alpine Construction site experience – aimed at those students who aspire to learning a trade
Journalism Master class – Article writing for Sky News based on the James Webb telescope
National Green Careers Week – Assemblies, curriculum and tutor activities run by subject teachers and tutors raising awareness a range of green careers today and in the future

Ad there’s so many more. Finally I would like to acknowledge a d than all of our industry, education and training partners who continue to support our young people and who give up their time to enrich their experiences especially Bristol Works and UWE Future Quest

Year 10 Work experience

Over 180 Year 10 students have completed their work experience placement, some even and some of them even found more than one placement to explore future careers. Here’s some of their stories and feedback on what was a wholly positive experience for all

Joe’s Story

I just wanted to introduce myself, I am Jen, one of the Studio Managers here at Strides Treglown and we had Joe here this week completing his Work Experience Placement. I’ve attached a copy of his presentation that he completed this week if you wanted to take a look. To give you a little bit of background on his week here, he was given a brief to create a ‘Dream House’ for a Client (a Strides Employee). This involved going to a client meeting alongside a ‘site’ visit. Then through sketching, making mood boards, playing around with samples, and using Revit our students then create a presentation which they then present to the client at the end of the week. Having spent a little time with Joe over the last few days I will say that he was polite, interested and engaged with the subject of architecture and the meetings that he went to and that he

represented himself and the school very well.

Rufus’ Story

Rufus has had a fantastic work experience week, working at Loves cafe in W-S-M. Loves is a vegan cafe, also running the appropriately named cafe, Sprout, in Grove Park. He had the opportunity to work in both cafes, prepping- and cooking, and as Front of House. He also got training in using the coffee machine, so he will now add barista training to his resume. He was met with a challenge on his first day that he will be talking about for a long time. Loves proprietor, Anna, runs weekly cooking sessions for Weston Refugee Action and Rufus made Syrian food with refugees and asylum seekers from many corners of the world. An eye-opener that has created a wish to volunteer when he is old enough. Considering food tech as his future career option and having an egg and dairy allergy, Rufus is becoming a confident vegan home cook. The opportunity with Anna at Loves has been such a positive experience on many levels. On the back of this week, he has been offered a Saturday job. Top week.

Tazrian’s Story

Tazrian spent the week with 310 Studio Architects, Bedminster. He had a really interesting time working each day with different members of the architect team. He learnt a lot of new skills and was set an assignment/design project. He had to give a presentation to the team at the end of the week of his proposed design concept. This included sharing his drawings, research and digital plans. He learnt how to draw out architectural plans by hand and learnt how to use new software to digitally bring his concept to life in 3D planning. We were really impressed with the feedback from the architects who said Tazrian was fully engaged, enthusiastic, well mannered, very polite and creative. He has brought home his project work which he plans to present in a sketchbook and hopefully add to his GCSE art portfolio.

Heidi’s Story

Just wanted to let you know, Heidi has had an absolute blast and loved every minute of it. I think it gave her a real insight to the working life, and came home each day very tired!!

What the students thought

I think that my work experience was really worth it as I was encouraged to engage with other people and I’ve learnt so much about their industry, systems they use on buildings and the software the company uses for producing digital projects. I do recommend going there for those who are into design and architecture. Mirella

I really enjoyed work experience, it was such a wonderful opportunity and I’m so so grateful for it. I learned a lot of valuable journalism and graphic design skills that will help me immeasurably for the future. Coco

I worked at Ct garages with Dave and Martin. I spent most of the time working on a range of cars and vans, mostly independently but with some help; from replacing DPF glow plugs to oil and filter changes to front salframe removal and LCA replacements. Wilf

I really enjoyed my week in the nursery. I got on well with the staff and the kids. The highlight of my week was going on a daytrip to the farm with the kids. It was very beneficial and made me know that I would like to work with kids in the future. Molly

It was very straightforward and meaningful for me. It has given me enough knowledge to decide my future career options. Overall, it was very positive for me. Ved

I worked at Amey Engineering – It was a really well organised week and I took part in a real project. I had a great time learning new skills. Everyone was very friendly and I loved meeting new people. Lucas

I had a great time at the BS3 Community nursery - Learned a lot about under 2 year olds. It was very meaningful and helped me understand what it is like to work in a nursery and I learnt that I like working with children. Ingrid

I really enjoyed my work experience. A highlight for me was definitely filming the companies at Battle Yard Studios, especially the costume service. Melissa

I worked in a primary school. I enjoyed it. It was really fun and engaging. – the class was amazing. I wished I could do more weeks. I felt like I was a part of the team. Kirby

I worked at Ciurus Yunex Traffic which provided the pportunity to learn new skill and show determination, and resilience as everyone makes mistakes and learns from them to eventually solve any puzzles and problems. Overall, my work experience was great and worth working there as your first experience. Mariam

Yr9 Neuroscience Festival - Bristol University

Over 40 Year 9 students were invited to attend the University of Bristol’s Neuroscience Festival in March. It was a chance to see some of the latest technology used in both the university and specialist companies such as Renishaw and the various research programmes taking place.
They had a chance to explore the Brain Dome, take part in numerous hands on activities and access careers information from the NHS, British Neuroscience Association and University of
Bristol university undergraduates.

Yr9 Yunex Traffic Workshop - Traffic Management

30 Yr 9 students were invited to an interactive workshop led by Yunex Traffic who are a national and international traffic management company.

They are responsible for transport planning, implementing traffic light and Pelican crossing sequencing throughout the UK.
They were very keen to inform students of STEM careers and pathways, relating to the crucially important industry of transport planning, and gave an insight into their roles within the industry and the career pathway they took
The students were then shown how to sequence a set of traffic lights using both hardware and software technology and then test their finished microchip boards on a set of traffic lights, checking if the sequence was correct.

The careers curriculum 2023 – It’s even bigger and better!

This year has seen the introduction of careers drop-down days for all Yr 7, 8.9 &10s. These careers focus days are in addition to the already packed careers curriculum at Ashton Park.

Yr 7 careers drop-down day focused on an introduction to careers and the world of work through a series of careers games. Each Yr7 student created a Careerpilot account and investigated different jobs, which qualifications and training they would need’ what the job entailed and most importantly how much they could earn! They were fascinated and better prepared for their future.

Yr 8 experienced their first link with industry through an interactive workshop run by local employers BAE Systems and delivered in partnership with the RAF and the Royal Navy. This STEM careers session introduced students to design and engineering. All Yr 8 students were invited to the sports hall for an interactive, high octane presentation on MAGNETICS. The pupils had opportunities to get involved with demonstrations and Q & A while Mr Magnetic orchestrated the show. Pupils also had an insight into the use of Magnets and Electromagnets by BAE, the RAF and Royal Navy. This was an invaluable event where both boys and girls were introduced to STEM subjects related to future careers. Thank you to Mr James for adding to our careers in the curriculum programme.

Yr 9 took part in a ‘Money Matters’ careers day focused on money management to online money security. The workshops were run by over 30 volunteers from Lloyds Banking Group in Bristol. The workshops involved a range of presentations designed to make our students better prepared for their financial future. Topics covered included: Keeping my money safe, What do I want and what do I need - decisions about how to spend their money, Staying safe with digital money, Choices about money - making the most of what I have, Risking it, is it worth it. When asked, over 75% of the students found the day of value and felt better prepared for the financial future while the volunteers from Lloyds praised how our students engaged with the day.

Yr 10 Employer Engagement careers drop-down day was run in partnership with ‘Bristol works’. With work experience, post 16 choices and future employment pathways in mind all students experienced a carousel of hands on workshops run by over 30 local companies and employers from all industry sectors. From bride building to designing an App to animation to emergency medicine there was something to excite and motivate everyone. The aim of day was to engage and inspire our young people to link with employers from all sectors of industry to help build the future workforce. The day was an incredible success, all students attended 3 workshops delivered by our industry partners as well as an hours ‘speed dating’ with FE, HE and training providers. The day would not have been possible without the support of local employers including Aardman Animation, the NHS, Stantec engineering, Cratus Communication, Amy Construction, BDO, the Army, Willmore Iles, Alun Griffiths as well as a whole range of Post 16 and Post 18 education and training providers. Our students loved the day and certainly benefitted.

Widening Links with Industry at Ashton Park – Teacher Encounters Programme

Ashton Park has been lucky enough to secure funding for 3 of our teachers to develop links with local industry through Teacher Encounters. Teacher Encounters is a teacher development programme funded by the Careers and Enterprise Company and delivered by the West of England Careers Hub in partnership with Graphic Science. Through encounters with employers outside of education, teachers build their confidence in engaging with and maintaining contact with employers, develop new networks, extend partnership working and increase in the number of meaningful employer encounters aligned to curriculum learning. In the West of England, Teacher Encounters also focus on Green Skills, helping to increase overall awareness of the opportunities within green careers, and help to improve the diversity of students’ destination choices.

Having visited local employers Mr Randall, Ms Sims and Ms Dempsey will now use these insights to enrich their curriculum teaching with exciting and meaningful activities, helping their students build a deeper understanding of opportunities, connections between learning and industry and the essential skills that need to be honed for different roles.

Thanks to Vinci Construction, Renishaw Engineering and LettUs Grow for supporting the teachers and the school to promote careers links and provide opportunities for our pupils

Evidence tells us that teachers are one the biggest influencers on young people’s decision making and teacher encounters will give our students the opportunity to support them to inspire the next generation to the best of their ability.

Yr10 Work Experience 2023

What a fantastic work experience week!

184 Year 10 students have completed their work experience placement, mainly last week and some of them even found more than one placement to explore future careers.

From Highgrove House to Harwood House, architectural companies, engineering ,Lloyds Banking Group, numerous Bristol County Council department, NHS, 20 primary schools and nurseries, cafes and restaurants, hair and beauty salons, veterinary practices, retail, marketing, IT developers, business administration, legal, construction, garden centres, numerous University of Bristol departments and UWE’s Art campus. The list is varied and endless.

The year 10 tutors either visited as many students as possible or telephoned to find out how they were getting on and to witness the amazing work they were engaged in. The comments from the employers were positive, enthusiastic, often praising the maturity and confidence of our students and that it had been a pleasure to work alongside them.

“He’s getting on very well.. Currently writing script for a robot…been having a great week with the robotics team…been a credit to the school”

‘This is the first time in many years that we have had a work experience placement and for us it has been a very positive experience.’

‘Next year, I'd quite like to open work experience up for people to apply to our business (maybe 2 or 3 people working together for the week).’

Many have offered future part time employment and future advice and guidance.

The evidence speaks for itself. The students have come back more confident, and their employability skills developed enormously. Comments from the students include;

‘Had a fantastic week and it’s opened up careers I didn’t know existed’

‘It was lovely to work with adults who valued my opinion’

‘Has confirmed that I have chosen the right industry to continue my studies in’

2023 Work Experience Evaluation

Ashton Park Careers Fair 2023

We had around 50 exhibitors from FE & HE, apprenticeship providers and local and national industry partners. All students from Years 9-13 attended and were able to ask questions and find out more about their future career choices. The students loved the chance to focus on their futures and plan the way forward. The conversations were amazing and our students were once again a credit to the school through their very mature approach

The feedback from our careers partners was glowing and all appreciated the opportunity to engage with young people and promote their organisations. A big thank you to them on behalf of Ashton Park School.

Finally, I would like to thank Kathy Jemmott our school careers adviser for her meticulous organisation in organising a careers event unique to Ashton Park.

Yr 10 Work Experience 2022

What an incredible success this was. 187 students undertook a meaningful work experience placement, some students had more than one placement. The range of exciting placements, from all sectors of industry, was unbelievable

Our team of eight year 10 tutors spent a day visiting students to check everything was ok and to gather some feedback from students and employers.

This is what some of the students said:

‘I learnt how furniture is made and was able to apply the skills and knowledge I have learnt in DT to my work placement.’ Dylan

‘I really enjoyed my work experience - I learnt how to adapt to working with children of different ages and abilities’ Danni

I worked at Glass Designs. While I was there, I served and chatted with customers, made displays in the shop window, and made glass gifts. I really enjoyed it and think it showed me what its like to work in a shop and to operate the till and be friendly with customers.’ Evie

‘I learnt about how to use Photo-Shop and how T-shirts are printed as well as how a business works.’ Billy

‘I worked in a really posh restaurant and learnt cooking skills and how important working as a team is.’ Mateusz

‘I assisted the teachers and helped the children with their phonics and handwriting and playing with them at break and lunch. I’ve learnt a lot from my work experience including how to help neuro divergent children - who fall onto
the autistic spectrum- feel comfortable in a chaotic classroom.’ Edie

‘I worked part of a team in the garden centre caring for the plants as well as dealing with customers’ Harry

And here's a flavour of some of the things the employers said:

‘I wanted to send a quick email to say it was a pleasure having your students, Milo, Ula, Fallon, Edgar and Dylan with us on work experience. We hope they enjoyed the experience and have learnt some new skills and had their
horizons broadened from the wide range of activities they took part in. Your students did you proud, they tried their best with every activity and task given to them, worked well as a team and were all able to express their creativity in
different ways!’ Knowle West Media Centre

‘Harrison has been absolutely brilliant. He has contributed so much and went above and beyond. He was great with the kids when assisting with PE lessons and voluntarily helped out at after school football sessions and ran lunch
time sports activities. We’d have him back anytime.’ Oasis Connaught

‘Abi has been amazing! She has worked really hard as a part of our team. She has sat in on a multi-disciplinary case conference and was not afraid to contribute and ask questions. She has experienced the work of a speech therapist, a music therapist and an occupational therapist. She was extremely hands on and always got involved in our work.’ Ventures Academy

‘Lexi is having a perfect time and has worked with a range of clients and produced some wonderful work. She has done facials, hair tints and nails. A great young lady’. Bristol Nail & Beauty Studio

‘During Mia’s time with me in the design studio she has been confident, capable, on time, hardworking, a good communicator and engaged. She has achieved each task that has been set conscientiously and added to it to the benefit of the project. Her work whilst here has helped me bring the project forward and she has been a pleasure to have in the studio’ Tappenden & Tappenden Graphic Design

‘Ayesha is amazing! We want to keep her. Ayesha needs to go to university and become a teacher, she is so good at it. She has even been able to translate for a parent this week and get them signed up for something important.’ Compass Point

‘An absolute dream to work with and hope to see more of them in the theatre world.’ Bristol Old Vic

‘It’s been a pleasure having Riana with us this week, she’s been very helpful and hopefully enjoyed her time with us.’ Ashton Vale Pre School

In school work experience

There were a small number of students who did not find work experience placement - but worry not! The 23 students studied careers through the curriculum and took part in a range of workshops focusing on work skills. The workshops were run by the Department of Work and Pensions the Royal Marines. The students also immersed themselves in an employability day run in conjunction with the University of the West of England’s Widening Participation team. You can be sure that the students did not miss out and now feel well more prepared for the next step.

Medicine and Allied Health Professions – Career mentoring programme

24 of our Yr10 students who have an interest in a career in medicine or an allied health profession have embarked on a 4 year long career mentoring programme run by Future Quest and supported by our 3 local universities. This year the students have had seven sessions which began with talks from doctors and a pharmacists and culmination in a day visit to UWE’s Glenside campus where students experienced the work of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, a paramedics and a diagnostic radiographers. The programme continues through Yr11 and Sixth Form

A Day of Design with Socius

Led by Socius, students were given the opportunity to design the purpose of one of the buildings on site. It was fantastic to have so many volunteers for the day which included the head of engagement, Liam Ronan-Chlond, and senior project manager Luke Martin as well as investors, operators, architects, planners, and engineers who all came together to provide a meaningful, insightful and memorable experience for the students.

The day started with introductions and speed interviews from the volunteers accompanied by presentations of what they do. This gave the students an insight into the different career pathways, from civil engineering to property developing. Students were then taken on a tour of the site and told about the plans proposed for North House, one of the buildings. After both groups had the speed networking and site tour, groups designed their proposals for this building, having the opportunities to book meetings with the professional volunteers. This was a great opportunity for students to personally engage with professionals and gain feedback on their ideas.

After lunch the students really got to explore their own creativity! Working together in groups they developed presentations showing their plans for North House and it’s surroundings. This is where the students really showcased their potential. Each group did a presentation to the joy of the volunteers who then had to chose which group was the best and won the prize.

Luke, senior project manager of Socius said “We were delighted to host students from Ashton Park Secondary School at our site in Westbury Park to discuss design, planning and development. We asked interested students to design a future community space and we were very impressed with the quality of suggestions and genuinely inspiring, innovative ideas received. “ and “It’s so important to listen to young voices and nurture young talent. The students were a credit to their school. We couldn’t have delivered such a fantastic event without our partnership with Bristol Works.”

“We look forward to revisiting the students in the future to show how some of their ideas have been taken on board and will hopefully be brought to life as part of our proposals for St Christopher’s Square.”

The students were enthusiastic, confident, and worked well as a team. One student fed back that they had enjoyed the day and all the volunteers “gave lots of information”. They asked relevant questions showing their interest and positive attitude and students told us that they are now “more interested in design and engineering”. It was truly a pleasure to guide them through this experience

Aardman Animation Career Mentoring Programme

We, at Ashton Park, have been so lucky that Aardman animation opened its doors and ran a three day career mentoring programme for our Yr8 students. The aim of the three days was to to provide an insight into the media industry and showcase the variety of roles & routes through the door at Aardman.

The three days included a mixture of both practical workshops and careers talks from the different departments across Aardman’s creative, business and technical teams. The practical workshops involved model making, an introduction to animation and looked at acting for animation. Aardman’s employees hoped to inspire prospective new talent and encourage them to explore a career in the industry.

Here’s what two of our students said…

‘When we went to the Aardman studio, we had so much fun! It was super fun and enjoyable! I especially enjoyed the model making and method acting as it was really exciting. We learnt about the multitude of different jobs that we could do and different skill sets needed, for example some people from the finance team came in to teach us about that, people came in to show us how to do CGI and lots of other things- overall it was really interesting and i would love to work at Aardman someday! This will benefit us in the future as we could potentially come here for work experience (DofE) and it broadened our horizons and may open many doors and opportunities of jobs that we could.’

Bea and Honey

Here is a link to the BBC news article about the event as well as pictures of the students at work: Our BBC article

The Students where also evaluated for this placement and here are the results!

STEM – Dyson visit

Year 12 Maths, Physics and IT students spent a morning working with a Dyson Engineer on robotics. After learning about how Dyson develop their products and examining a robot vacuum cleaner and hairdryer the students embarked on a series of challenges programming a robot to navigate a course. Working in small teams, they were given very few instructions and no guidance but through tenacity, perseverance and many attempts the students developed a successful program. The next challenge was to minimise the number of instructions but to achieve the same goal. Again the students rose to the challenge magnificently.

The session ended with a talk about working at Dyson and their degree course which was very engaging. At the end, all students said how much they had enjoyed the experience.

Careers Fair

What a success last week's Careers Fair was! We had over 50 exhibitors from FE & HE, apprenticeship providers and local and national industry partners. All students from Year 9-13 attended and the atmosphere was amazing. The feedback from our students since the careers fair has been extremely positive and we are already being asked if there will be another one next year. Staff have also commented on this positivity and there have been numerous careers conversations since, both in tutor and lesson times. The words being used to describe this is: ‘Buzzing’ with enthusiasm.

On behalf of Ashton Park School, I would like to thank all organisations that supported the careers fair. Without their support, these events could not take place and our students would not reap the benefits of their expertise. Conversations provided our students with opportunities and career pathways they didn’t know how to access or even knew existed.

Careers in PSHE

Following a whole school review of Careers in PSHE curriculum, we have launched our new, careers education and guidance programme. All year groups have a bespoke programme with tailored activities suitable for their age and careers stage. The feedback from students and teachers is wholly positive.

Careers in the Curriculum

Many students question why they study specific subjects and through linking careers with these subjects they are more informed as to their relevance. Many faculties are including topics, workshops and presentations from local industries to support this. Three staff from Maths, English and Science have been part of a national workshop to develop schemes of work, led by a renowned expert. An example from the English Faculty is, linking the editor of Sky at Night to their topic of Exploration and the book Treasure Island. This enthusiasm is being spread to other faculties and can only enhance the students’ knowledge of future career pathways.

Careers Tutor programme

Linked to the above PSHE programme there is a bespoke careers tutor programme that enhances their studies. These 20-minute sessions are fun activities, are interactive and often lead to discussions within tutor time.

Work Experience 2022

COVID has had a significant impact on work experience over the last 2 years. However, we are proud to have launched this for July 2022. All year 10 students are encouraged to take part and many have already found exciting placements, most are face to face.

Girls Believe - Workshop

As part of the National Construction Week 30 Year 9 girls attended a face to face workshop presented by Bouygues, the construction company involved in Bristol city centre’s development for the future and the Bristol WORKS team. They were given an insight into how women have influenced architecture and design through the many disciplines of construction and engineering and how girls can play an important role in a once male-dominated industry.

Ashton Gate Stadium Visit

As part of National Careers Week 22 Year 9 students were invited to Ashton Gate Stadium for an interactive day to discover the variety of job roles and career pathways they offer, ranging from HR to professional sports stars.

The itinerary for the day included; an introduction to some of the job roles - listening to Scott Murray, a Bristol legend and prolific goal scorer for Bristol City FC and about his role as Kit Manager. From Matt who has the dream job of planning away events and tours for the Bristol City FC players.

This was followed by an hour-long tour of the stadium followed by an insight into the plans for the new stadium which will be the home of The Bristol Flyers Basketball team.

The day wasn’t quite over for our students as they were introduced to the coach and two of the Bristol Flyers Basketball team. Gives an insight into how they started in the sport, where it's taken them around the world and their future plans to study at university.

Finally, staff from the Bristol City Robins Foundation, introduced them to two of the courses offered by Ashton Gate, these included; Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and their BA (Hons) Sport Business and Entrepreneurship.

Colas Construction Day

Colas and Bristol WORKS provided a brilliant construction-focused day for students studying GCSE Design Technology. They got a fabulous insight into all aspects of the construction industry and a chance to put their construction skills into action. The students were set a challenge of building a ‘paper bridge’ spanning 50cm able to hold up to a Kilo of weight. Definitely some civil engineers in the making.

Year 9 Careers in the Curriculum

Lloyds Bank money matters workshops. The whole of year 9 to part in a series of workshops run by over 30 volunteers from Lloyds bank in Bristol. The workshops involved a range of presentations designed to make our students better prepared for their financial future. Topics covered included: Keeping my money safe; What do I want and what do I need - decisions about how to spend their money; Staying safe with digital money; Choices about money - making the most of what I have; Risking it is it worth it. When I asked over 75% of the students phone the day of value and felt better prepared for the financial future while the volunteers from Lloyds praised how our students engaged with the day.

The Brilliant Club - Scholars programme

This is a fantastic opportunity for our most academic Year 10 students to engage with research-based learning. The school has partnered with a Postgraduate student from the University of Bristol who has led this 8-week programme.

National Careers Service

NCS provide careers information, advice and guidance. They can help you to make decisions on learning, training and work at all stages in your career.

Find out about careers that might be right for you by taking a skills assessments

Explore a career by job category using the Government National Career Service

Explore the different ways there are to look for a new job. Choose which ways suit you best and find more opportunities.

Education advice if you have special educational needs or a disability. Here’s some information to help you choose what to do next if you have learning difficulties or a disability such as autism, attention deficit disorder (ADHD) or dyslexia

Further information on getting a job including: writing a CV; writing a cover letter; completing an application form; interview tips; how to answer interview questions

Information for parents

There is also an excellent Parents’ guide to National Careers Week

Careers Programme

Provider Access Statement

Student and Parents Careers Information

Career resource platforms

Careerpilot

All students and parents/carers at Ashton Park have access to Careepilot. It provides free expert careers information and tools for 11-19 year olds, all in one place (available to them until 21 years of age). Students can create an account where they are able to research courses, research future careers and record achievements,

It's never been more important to look in detail at your career choices, find out where jobs are and which courses to do. To find out more Watch our video and then explore Careerpilot to find out more.

For Information to help parents and carers support young people in making the right decision about study and work visit the Career Pilot Parent Zone.

Choices 16+

1. Further Education

Ashton Park Sixth Form
Ashton Sixth is Ashton Park School's sixth form, with a dedicated block situated on the school site. The small class sizes enable teachers to build a good rapport with students resulting in excellent progression rates and pastoral
support. Ashton Sixth has course options to suit all future aspirations, whether students wish to go on to university, apprenticeships or the world of employment. You can find a wealth of information, including a prospectus, course guide and application form on the Ashton Sixth website: Ashton Sixth.

All Ashton Park School year 11s will have the opportunity to explore our sixth form during the school year and we welcome visits from external students.

Other Further Education Providers

City of Bristol College https://www.cityofbristol.ac.uk/

South Gloucester & Stroud College (SGS) https://www.sgscol.ac.uk/

St Brendan’s Sixth Form College https://www.stbrn.ac.uk/

St Mary Redcliffe 6th Form https://www.smrt.bristol.sch.uk/index.php/sixth-form

North Bristol Post 16 Centre http://www.nbp16c.org.uk/

Weston College https://www.weston.ac.uk/

Bath College https://www.bathcollege.ac.uk/

Hartpury University and College https://www.hartpury.ac.uk/

For more comprehensive information of providers please refer to the Bristol City Council Post 16 directory

https://www.p16p.co.uk/post-16-directory

2. Apprenticeship and Training Providers

National Apprenticeship Service

This is a government website which allows you to research becoming and apprentice as well as helping you search for an apprenticeship.

Not Going to Uni

NGTU is a great website for searching for apprenticeships and training opportunities, blogs and case studies to inspire you. It even has a parent section

ASK – Amazing Apprenticeships

Amazing Apprenticeships is a leading organisation in the education sector, working with schools, colleges and employers, tackling misconceptions and promoting the benefits of apprenticeships and technical education. Everything you need to know about Apprenticeships, T Levels and Traineeships

Careerpilot

Information and searches for apprenticeships.

SW Apprenticeship Company

Provides apprenticeship opportunities and information including on becoming an apprentice and a parents’ guide

Bristol City College

One of the biggest local providers of training and apprenticeship is Bristol City College. To find out more, register and apply visit https://www.cityofbristol.ac.uk/apprenticeships/

Other Local Training Providers

Access Creative College Creative industry training provider
BEMA British Engineering Manufacturers Association
Boomsatsuma Creative industry training provider
Bristol City Robins Foundation Training and education related to the sports and entertainment industry
Circomedia Training and workshops in contemporary circus and physical theatre
dBs Music Creative industry training provider
Didac National Training Providers Specialist training provider in furniture, wood and merchanting sectors.
HIT Training and Connect Care Hospitality industry training provider
On Site Bristol Specialist training for the construction industry
Reflections Training Academy Hairdressing and barbering traineeships
S&B Automotive Academy automotive apprenticeship including Heavy Vehicle, Bus and Coach, Light Vehicle, Parts, Body Repair, Paint, Auto-Electrical, Management, Customer Service and Business & Administration.
Youth Education Service

For more comprehensive information of providers please refer to the Bristol City Council Post 16 directory

https://www.p16p.co.uk/post-16-directory

Career and Labour market Information

What is labour market information?

In a nutshell, labour market information tells you about the local or national demand there is for different skills and from different industries. Labour market information tells you:

Which jobs are likely to be easiest or hardest to find in your area
Which are the big employers in different areas and which ones have jobs on offer
What skills employers are looking for and which are in short supply
How much you can expect to be paid in specific jobs
What working conditions are like
What qualifications will be most helpful if you want a certain career
What the jobs of the future might look like and which jobs might disappear

When looking at your career options at school, it's important that you find out as much as you can about the industry that you'd like to work in. Knowing how much you'll be paid, how competitive the job market is and where most jobs are based can all influence your decision in pursuing a career. All of these factors can help you make a more informed decision about what career path to take. Depending on where you live, and whether you’re willing to move, that might mean you need to adjust your career plans.

How to find labour market information

To find out more or for the most up-to-date labour market information and infographics for all regions of the UK

To compare different jobs — salary, working hours, etc follow the link. Type in the first career that you think you might be interested in and select from the drop-down list, then add your second and third choice to see the comparison. An example is shown below

Work Experience

Ashton Park Work Experience Opportunities

At Ashton Park School we are in agreement of the added value a meaningful work experience brings for our young people. Research shows that work experience enables young people to gain a better understanding of a career and the work involved, develop job-specific skills and show motivation and commitment. We also strongly believe that by young people engaging in meaningful work experience they will be more able to make informed career choices and the clear pathway to it.

Both Yr10 and Yr12 students will have a dedicated Work Experience Week, However students who arrange meaningful work experience placement outside this window (where fixed dates are only available) will be supported where possible.

We would like to encourage all our Yr10 and 1Yr12 students to engage in work experience, however we acknowledge that these are challenging times and not all organisations will be able to offer placements. Therefore there will be a series of work related activities and employer engagements in school work experience week for those students unable to secure a meaningful placement. Similarly lessons will continue as normal and teaching and learning will be adapted accordingly with a careers theme.

The onus will be on the students to be proactive in securing a meaningful work experience placement and we hope that parents and carers will give them your full support in doing so. There will be a careers module delivered to all Year 10 students in SMSC lessons to help guide students through the work experience process as well as WEX Wednesday tutor time sessions and one to one interviews run by our careers officer Kathy Jemmott. Tutors will also play a key role.

If you have any questions about this or would like to know more please email Kathy kathrynjemmott@ashtonpark.net

Planning for your WEX Placement – A guide for students

Your work experience placement is probably your first taste of what it’s like to be in a real workplace. Understandably, you’ll be excited, maybe even a bit nervous and not knowing what to expect on your first day only adds to the uncertainty.

Whatever your feelings are towards your work experience placement, rest assured that you’ll be great. Here's our guide to how to prepare for work experience.

Before your WEX Placement

Make contact ahead of your placement

This is an obvious one right? True. But you’d be surprised at how this might slip your mind as you’re preparing other things. We recommend speaking with your contact at the company to confirm that you have the correct starting date and time. Talking with your employer beforehand also gives you the opportunity to ask about dress codes, transport, working hours and whether there’s anything specific that you need to bring with you on your first day. You should also ask the name of the person that will meet you when you arrive. If anything, speaking with your employer by phone will help put your mind at ease and confirm that they’re expecting you as planned.

Research the company before you start

A big part of knowing how to prepare for work experience is doing your research beforehand. Having a good idea of what the company does before your first day will help you make sense of things when you’re there. It’ll also help you prepare some questions that you might want to ask during your placement. The more research you do before your work experience, the more you’ll be able to engage in conversation with your colleagues. Trust us, your research won’t go unnoticed and if nothing else, it’ll help you create a good first impression with your manager and fellow employees. In many cases, work experience placements often end up resulting in part-time jobs, so if you enjoy your time there, bear in mind that your efforts could help you secure a job with the company in the future.

Make sure you're dressed for the occasion

What to wear to your work experience placement will depend largely on the type of work you’ll be doing. If you’re going to be based in an office, then you may need to wear a shirt and tie or blouse, whereas if you’ll be working outdoors, you’ll need to bring warm clothes and suitable footwear. Your employer should give you an indication of the workplace dress code before you start, but if not, make sure you ask if you’ll need to buy any special clothing. By dressing in the same way as the rest of the workplace, you’ll feel more comfortable and feel a part of the team quicker too.

During your WEX Placement

Make a good first impression

First impressions really do count. Make sure you turn up on time, are suitably dressed (if in doubt, better to go smarter), and are raring to go. If you show you’re friendly, reliable, and competent from the get-go, chances are more opportunities will come your way.

Get to know people

Greet everyone you meet with a smile and try and introduce yourself to everybody you'll be working with. Don't be afraid to ask people about their roles and how they got to where they are now – they'll be flattered!

Be organised

While you’ll have guidance during your placement, you can’t expect to be spoon-fed the whole time. Listen carefully to instructions and note down important meetings, dates, and deadlines to help manage your time effectively.

Get involved

It might sound obvious, but the more you get stuck in, the more experience you'll gain. Be enthusiastic about any task – big or small – and use your initiative to go above and beyond what's asked of you.

Ask questions

There’s no shame in asking for clarification if you're not sure what you're doing – in fact, employers will respect that you have the guts to ask. But be resourceful – think twice about asking a question that could be answered with a quick Google search.

Make suggestions

If you think you've got a valuable comment to add, don’t be afraid to speak up. Employers love people with ideas, and your contribution – whether your idea is taken up or not – will be appreciated.

Offer to help

When you speak to people, ask after their current projects and emphasise that you’d like to get involved. Showing you're approachable and keen will ensure they think of you when they need an extra pair of hands.

Make notes

Jot down any useful information about particular tasks you've worked on and skills you've picked up. That way you’ll have a record of everything you need to take away from your time there – handy for future job applications!

Ask for feedback

Try and gather informal feedback from your supervisor as you go along, rather than just waiting for a report at the end – it gives you a chance to improve throughout your time there, and shows that you care that you're doing a good job.

After your WEX Placement

Reflect on your work experience

It’s important to be honest with yourself when reflecting on your placement. If you didn't particularly enjoy it, it doesn’t mean it’s been a massive waste of your time. Even if the only thing you take away from the experience is knowing you don’t want to work in that industry, it’s been useful!

Careers in the Curriculum

Careers through our curriculum

Although we, at Ashton park school, offer a whole range of careers information and guidance, through our school website, our careers fair, targeted careers events with industry providers and most importantly 1-1 careers interviews and small group support, research has shown that students are far more likely to take notice of information if it is delivered by a known and trusted teacher. The student can then see the relevance of the subject to their future lives. It gives an answer to that question: ‘Why are we learning this? I’m never going to use this in my life’

Below are ways our teachers develop careers through your curriculum – most of the time it will be recognising or building on what they already do or seizing opportunities to integrate a careers theme into schemes of learning and lesson plans. Careers in our curriculum is not be seen as a standalone topic using up valuable subject teaching and learning time.

Students don’t always recognise that what they learn about often relates to careers. We take every relevant opportunity to promote careers through our curriculum – for example links with industry, subject careers champions, posters and displays, guest speakers, social media articles

Above are the ‘skills builder’ foci which emphasise the essential work skills – many subjects lend themselves to one or a number of these and are emphasised in lessons and home learning

Outstanding examples of Careers in the Curriculum at Ashton Park School

Thanks must go to English teacher James Randall for leading the way and providing examples of how the English faculty has integrated careers into their curriculum.

Case Study 1 - APS English collaboration with Talent-Forum-Potential and YTL Developments

This property development project was initiated by Gerard Liston from Talent-Forum-Potential. Talent-Forum-Potential's process is designed to support development of curriculum projects in partnership with employers. The Year 9 project was designed to enrich non-fiction reading analysis and writing. The brief from the English faculty stated: ‘Using rhetorical devices and persuasive techniques to produce quality opinion writing is a crucial skill for students to develop for their futures. Not only is this a useful skill for a career such as journalism, but in our adult lives we are constantly having to use the written word make our voices heard. Through studying persuasive techniques and transactional writing, students can gain more of an insight into how language is used in advertising to manipulate for example. They can also use these techniques and skills to achieve success in their own lives.’

An approach to a major property developer asked if they might be willing to look at written work by the students after they had read about one of their large local projects, which involved the transformation of the old Filton airfield. YTL Developments provided video and other promotional information about the ‘Brabazon’ project and the Director of Planning & Development recorded a short message of greeting, expressing interest in seeing the students’ ideas about how the development can support health and wellbeing – ‘in writing … on paper’. This challenge was the basis for a 30-minute writing task that required students to apply rhetorical devices, persuasive techniques, an appeal to the audience, modal verbs and imperative sentences."

Case Study 2 - Year 8 Workshop with Orion Publishing

This project was delivered Ellen Turner from Orion Publishing. Ellen worked closely with APS English Faculty to deliver two workshops for the Gold, Silver and Bronze award winners of the Reading Showcase Project. The text for this case study is taken from Ellen's initial email: "We would love to hold a careers event that incorporates a creative writing lesson which we could fit into the curriculum that the students are working with right now. For instance, we could take a book they are studying and ask the students to market the book to us, write a press release, ask how they would sell the book to a retailer, redesign the cover or change the story like an editor! We will then follow up with a Q&A panel event with a few members of our staff across the departments to talk a little more about our roles, day to day activities and what publishing entails." We used the text that the year 8s were studying, Frankenstein, as a basis for the workshop. The students were enthused, engaged and inspired, and the Orion Publishing staff also had a fantastic day.

Case Study 3 - APS English collaboration with BBC Sky at Night Magazine

This project was a result of the excellent presentation by Chris Bramley, editor of BBC Sky at Night Magazine, organised through the Bright Horizons programme and the school Parent Hub. Chris and the English Faculty worked closely together to produce a lesson which links to the unit theme of 'exploration' and got students practicing nonfiction writing techniques with a sense of purpose and a link to the 'real world of work'. Chris provided the idea for the topic of the lesson (the James Webb Space Telescope), produced an explanatory video, and edited a 'factsheet' for a comprehension/research task. Chris recorded a short message of greeting, setting the task and expressing interest in seeing the magazine articles. He also gave tips for success in the task. This challenge was the basis for a 30-minute writing task about the space telescope that required students to apply rhetorical and literary devices, such as persuasive techniques and figurative language, to engage and excite the readers of the magazine. Sky at Night Website: https://www.skyatnightmagazine.com

Gatsby Benchmarks

What are the Gatsby Benchmarks?

The Gatsby Benchmarks define what world class careers provision in education looks like and provide a clear framework for organising the careers provision at your school or college.â€‹

At Ashton Park School we meet these benchmarks in the following ways:

We have a stable, logically structured careers policy and progressive careers programme that benefits from the full support of the Governors, Head teacher and senior leadership team. Strategic leadership of careers in the school is the overall responsibility of our trained Careers Lead who is supported by our highly qualified (Level 6 Diploma in Career Guidance and Development) operational Careers Advisor. A link member of the senior leadership team holds the Careers Leader to account with an appropriate levels of challenge and support The careers programme is linked to the school’s aims of raising aspirations and levels of achievement. The programme is published on the school’s website so students, parents, teachers and employers can access and understand it. The programme is evaluated and reviewed each year. The school has completed regular Compass evaluation and is using it to drive improvement. The programme includes activities for all students from years 7 to 13 that are delivered through: personal development lessons (PSHE), assemblies, tutor activities, work related activities, employer encounters, guest speakers and workplace experience for years 10 and 12.

All students and parents/carers have access to Careerpilot which provides a wealth of labour market information (LMI) and links to national and local web sources which often provides more in-depth and up-to-date LMI. Students are able to generate personalised career information based on their interests and career aspirations. All students are encouraged to think about the behaviours and skills that help them to develop. Beyond the website, the school also has a Careers Adviser who makes time to support students with individual queries. Students receive high quality impartial and individualised advice about their career options, training and employment opportunities from year 7 onwards. All KS4 and KS5 students have one-to-one careers interview with our qualified careers advisor. Our careers advisor is available at KS4 and KS5 parents’ evenings and open evenings throughout the year. Extra support for SEND & disadvantaged students is available. For Yr 11 and Yr 13 there is results day support and next step guidance brom our careers advisor

The school is committed to working within FE, HE education and training providers, including universities, colleges and apprenticeship providers, to present pupils with the full range of opportunities in further study, training and work and to keep the number of young people who become NEET to an absolute minimum. Bristol Works and Future Quest are significant school careers partners. Every student in Year 10 and 12 has the opportunity to spend one week with an employer - for those students who do not secure a WEX placement there is alternative in school programme focusing on work skills and employability skills.

Our annual careers fair links all students from year 9-13 with local, national and international employers and apprenticeship/training providers covering a range of sectors as well our local FE and HE providers.

Our Sixth Form runs a series of visits, speakers and events to engage our students FE and HE providers. Opportunities for Open Days are identified and promoted to Sixth Form students. Access to Bristol provides our students with an unprecedented opportunity to experience life at the University of Bristol.

All curriculum areas, particularly STEM, are encouraged to incorporating career learning within their subject and utilized opportunities with local employers to enhance their existing curriculum and subject matter. Careers week provides a link between the curriculum and careers.

Destinations Data

Ashton Park School & Sixth Form Centre

Destination Data For Yr13 - Academic year 2020 - 21

Combined figures for Ashton Sixth & Bristol City Robins Foundation

Total number of students = 50

Destination	Total number of students	Percentage total
University/HE	28	56
Further Education - L3	2	4
Apprenticeship	7	14
F/T employment	13	26

Ashton Park School & Sixth & Form Centre

Destination Data For Yr13 - Academic year 2019 - 20

Combined figures for Ashton Sixth & Bristol City Robins Foundation

Total number of students = 87

Destination	Total number of students	Percentage total
University/HE	27	31
Further Education - L3	0	0
Apprenticeship	28	32
F/T employment	32	37

Ashton Park School & Sixth & Form Centre

Destination Data For Yr13 - Academic year 2018 - 19

Combined figures for Ashton Sixth & Bristol City Robins Foundation

Total number of students = 108

Destination	Total number of students	Percentage total
University/HE	52	48
Further Education - L3	10	9
Apprenticeship	23	21
F/T employment	23	21

Ashton Park School

Year 11 Destinations 2020-21

Destination	Number	Percentage
Ashton Park SF	45	21.1
St Mary Redcliffe SF	45	21.1
Bristol Cathedral SF	7	3.3
V6 - Colston SF	2	0.9
N Bristol P16	2	0.9
Backwell SF	1	0.5
Merchants Academy SF	1	0.5
City of Bristol College	55	25.8
St Brendan’s College	16	7.5
Weston College	2	0.9
SGS College	11	5.2
Harpbury College	4	1.9
College - other	2	0.9
Robbins Foundation	2	0.9
Boomsatsuma	5	2.3
Access Creative	1	0.5
DBS Sound	2	0.9
The Park	1	0.5
Military College	1	0.5
OnSite Apprenticeship	3	1.4
Apprenticeship - other	2	0.9
Hospital Education	2	0.9
NEET	1	0.5
Total	213

Ashton Park School

Year 11 Destinations 2019-20

Destination	Number	Percentage
Ashton Park SF	31	15.6
St Mary Redcliffe SF	51	25.6
Bristol Cathedral SF	3	1.5
N Bristol P16	2	1.0
City of Bristol College	34	17.1
St Brendan’s College	28	14.1
Weston College	4	2.0
SGS College	12	6.0
Harpbury College	1	0.5
College - other	1	0.5
Robbins Foundation	3	1.5
Boomsatsuma	4	2.0
Access Creative	4	2.0
Reflections Training	2	1.0
S&B Auto Training	1	0.5
The Park	1	0.5
BIMM Training	1	0.5
OnSite Apprenticeship	2	1.0
Apprenticeship - other	4	2.0
Hospital Education	3	1.5
NEET	7	3.5
Total	199

Ashton Park School

Year 11 Destinations 2018-19

Destination	Number	Percentage
Ashton Park SF	28	14.0
St Mary Redcliffe SF	28	14.0
Bristol Cathedral SF	1	0.5
St Katherine’s SF	1	0.5
City of Bristol College	50	25.0
St Brendan’s College	35	17.5
Harpbury College	1	0.5
Weston College	1	0.5
SGS College	14	7.0
Bath College	3	1.5
College - other	2	1.0
Robbins Foundation	3	1.5
Boomsatsuma	2	1.0
Access Creative	1	0.5
DBS Sound	2	1.0
OnSite Apprenticeship	1	0.5
Apprenticeship - other	20	10.0
Hospital Education	1	0.5
NEET	6	3.0
Total	200

Job Families and Industries

Click on the links below for more details.