Award winning careers advice at Westfield

A Yeovil school are celebrating after becoming the first school in the area to be granted the highly prestigious Investors in Careers Award; awarded under the Careers Development Institute framework 2015. This is a nationally recognised Quality in Careers Standard award which acknowledges excellence in Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance.

Westfield Academy’s all-embracing approach to Careers Education is rather unique. Unlike many schools, the academy timetable includes regular lessons in PSHE and Careers, with a strong focus on preparing students for life after Westfield.

Assessment began in January 2016, with the full award being achieved by July. The Assessor praised the school for their efforts; with a number of particular strengths mentioned. In particular “The high degree of trust and respect accorded to staff by the students in delivering a quality programme of CEIAG” and “the school’s highly individualised approach to supporting students in preparation for Work Experience and the lead role it plays in training local schools in the area”.

Jackie Surrey who takes a lead role in implementing careers education throughout the school believe there is more to it than just lessons “We are all really proud to receive this award. We work very hard, in partnership with Careers South West, to ensure good quality, impartial Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance across all key stages, however, the development of our student’s employability is cross curricular. When you go out in to the world of work you do not just need the skills, you need the confidence to demonstrate those skills as well. Self-belief is paramount”

Released On 5th Oct 2016