Geits (P7) pupils will be introduced to Unifrog, our Careers platform.

In Geits, pupils will also be introduced to the world of work during interactive lessons where they will engage with tasks that relate to different kinds of STEAM jobs and create their own Careers Fair.
 

2nds (S1) pupils’ knowledge of the world of work will be furthered with a cross-curricular project involving RE, Music and Drama.
 

In 3rds (S2), pupils’ knowledge of the world of work will be furthered with a trip to the Science Festival’s Careers Hive event, ahead of having to choose their subjects for their National 5s. In addition to a year group talk dedicated to this topic, pupils will also have one-on-one interviews with either the Head of Careers or the Careers Advisor or another member of the team.

In line with subject choice, a number of Health and Wellbeing lessons will focus on interests and skills, allowing pupils to start thinking about theirs. Pupils will have a chance to engage more fully with Unifrog.

4ths (S3) will see pupils start to think about career pathways. They will explore various options through careers-focused Health and Wellbeing lessons, world of work workshops and a ‘Take Your Child to Work’ day.

The 5ths (S4) Careers Programme starts off with psychometric testing via Unifrog, which is based on Myers-Briggs tests utilised by many industry employers. This is followed by a careers carousel afternoon, where the pupils have the opportunity to speak with various representatives from a variety of different employers and industries. The pupils also receive a one-to-one conversation with a member of the careers department, who will discuss various career paths and courses that might be of interest following the psychometric testing and ahead of them making their subject choices for Highers in 6ths if they decide to remain in school.

During the year, other career-related events will be organised for the 5ths, such as Careers Talks and bespoke College and Apprenticeship information sessions for pupils considering leaving school.

During the 6ths/S5 year, pupils will start focusing more clearly on life after The Edinburgh Academy. They will work on employability skills, networking, exploring career options and interests, and building their CV.

Pupils will have a one-on-one interview with a member of the careers department. They will also be urged to do work experience and The Edinburgh Academy will organize a Careers Fair at which pupils can speak to universities and Further Education providers. Those already interested in competitive applications (Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine) will be identified and further bespoke sessions will begin, along with mentoring from a senior member of staff.

Pupils in 6ths will also have a week that will be university-orientated and will include guest speakers and information sessions on UCAS. This will be followed up by all pupils attending the Glasgow University Open Day. Pupils also receive the opportunity to start Elective courses. For example, an Extended Project Qualification or the Creative Thinking course, both of which allow further skill development throughout 7ths that can then be applied to undergraduate study.
 

The final year at the Academy, 7ths/S6, will be dedicated to helping pupils make the best choices for their future and ensuring they have the highest chances of success with their applications.

The year starts off with mock interviews where pupils will receive feedback on their CV and interview skills. Those interested in Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine are further guided through the early application process and subsequent tests and/or interviews. Simultaneously, the rest of the cohort will begin working on their personal statements, UCAS and College applications. Pupils who wish to take a gap year, study abroad or enter employment will also be supported fully. Elective courses begun in 6ths are also completed. Through every step of the way, pupils can count on advice, guidance and feedback from all members of the careers department.