Year 11 Pupils Explore Post-16 Options at Co-op Academy North Manchester
As our Year 11 pupils progress on their GCSE journey, the academy has been dedicated to guiding them as they explore options for their post-16 pathways. To ensure they are fully informed and prepared, the academy has hosted a series of events designed to introduce pupils to various educational and career opportunities.
Careers Carousel
One of the highlights has been the Careers Carousel, where representatives from several post-16 providers visited the academy to share valuable insights. Each provider held a presentation, showcasing the unique benefits of their programs and helping pupils understand the range of opportunities available to them after Year 11 with a focus on T Levels, A Levels vocational courses and apprenticeships.
Pupils were given the opportunity to ask questions relevant to the provider. This included questions about the best route of travel, the uniform, the requirements to continue to study Maths and English and whether the routes they had chosen would suit their needs on a decided career pathway.
"The Careers Carousel was a meaningful event where our pupils showed great maturity in their decision-making and managed themselves exceptionally well, ensuring they attended all the sessions. The post-16 providers were full of praise for the pupils' dedication to their future career paths, describing them as ‘motivated and ambitious’."
Careers Fair
In addition to the Careers Carousel, the academy hosted an interactive Careers Fair. Representatives from diverse sectors attended, giving pupils the chance to explore multiple career paths, understand required qualifications, and learn about potential job roles across industries. Pupils across years 10 and 11 were able to ask questions directly, gaining practical knowledge to aid in their decision-making, whilst picking up the free merchandise. This is a key event in our aim to ensure that all pupils make informed choices regarding their post-16 education or training to enable them to lead happy and successful lives.
"Year upon year, the Careers Fair gets bigger with an increase in the number of providers. This year there were over 10 sectors of work covered. Pupils embrace the opportunity to get all the information they need to make informed decisions, with some changing their minds and seeking new opportunities."
Mock Interview Event
To further support pupils in their transition to the world of work or further education, the academy organised a Mock Interview Day. Pupils prepared job applications, which they then discussed in one-on-one interviews with real employers. This experience gave pupils invaluable practice in interview techniques and allowed them to build confidence in presenting their skills and aspirations, despite their apprehensions and anxieties before the interview.
The event was a resounding success. Employers praised the event as one of the best they had experienced for student engagement and were impressed with how pupils showcased their dedication and potential as they prepared for the next stage of their lives. Glenn Whitlow from NOV Manchester highlighted how well the pupils interviewed despite the daunting task of speaking to someone they had never met before. "They were brilliant," he remarked, commending the pupils for their admirable performance in their first-ever mock interviews.
Stevie Collins from Go Northwest found the experience insightful, both for the pupils and employees. She added "It is great that this school allows pupils to gain valuable interview skills," she said, expressing her admiration for how pupils engaged wholeheartedly despite their nerves and how well they represented the school.
"What matters to the academy is that our pupils have the best opportunities without facing barriers. This event is about self-concept and confidence to speak out about their successes in a non-threatening environment. Year upon year, it remains one of the most valued opportunities and this year the support from employers across Greater Manchester was overwhelming."
The feedback from pupils following these events speaks for itself, highlighting the significant impact these experiences have on their confidence, self-awareness, and readiness for the future. Hearing directly from them demonstrates how valuable and transformative these opportunities are.
Leah: "I’ve realised that interviews don’t have to feel nerve-wracking or embarrassing. They’re simply an opportunity for others to understand who you are as a person and to recognise the skills you bring to the table."
Zak: "Confidence and honesty are key during an interview. It’s important to be outgoing, answer questions truthfully, and show genuine interest in maintaining good eye contact and positive body language."
Francoise: "I’ve learnt how important it is to stay confident, even when put on the spot. Preparing for questions in advance and understanding more about myself gives me more to talk about. I also discovered how powerful eye contact can be in showing confidence."
Fahad: "The interview process has inspired me to pursue my passion for maths and engineering. I’ve also learnt about the range of opportunities available and how to approach interview questions effectively."
Lara: "I’ve realised that working on my strengths, like my communication skills, can help me improve even further."
Seada: "This experience has given me a clearer understanding of how interviews, especially college interviews, work. I feel much more confident about future interviews and applying to colleges, knowing I’ll be prepared to do my best."
Rebo: "I’ve learnt that while interviews can feel daunting at first, they’re nothing to worry about. Confidence is crucial, and this experience will definitely help me succeed in future interviews."