National Careers Week

National Careers Week is a highlight of the year at Victoria College, but it also serves as a gateway into a much broader, year-round careers programme designed to support students at every stage of their educational journey. Our approach ensures that pupils leave Victoria College confident, informed, and ready to take their next steps into the world of work. 

Early Exploration in Years 7 and 8 

Careers education begins from the moment students join the College. In Years 7 and 8, pupils take part in tutor group sessions focused on developing key transferable skills and understanding how these apply across a wide range of future careers. 

During National Careers Week, Year 8 students take part in an exciting speed networking event, meeting ten employers from diverse on island industries. This fast-paced experience encourages them to ask insightful questions and gain firsthand knowledge of different job roles and career pathways. 

Deepening Understanding in Years 9 and 11 

As students progress, careers education becomes more focused. In Years 9 and 11, pupils spend six weeks of PSHE lessons exploring employability skills, CV writing, cover letter preparation, and post-16 options. 

The Skills Jersey team visits to provide expert guidance on further education and training pathways. Every student also receives a one-to-one careers interview at key decision points - Year 9 GCSE Options and Year 11 post-16 choices - ensuring they feel supported and informed. 

Real World Experience in Year 10 

Year 10 pupils take part in a two-week Trident work experience placement, offering them their first meaningful taste of working in a real-world environment. This hands-on experience helps students develop independence, confidence, and a clearer sense of their future aspirations. 

Connecting Students and Employers: The Victoria College Careers Fair 

Victoria College hosts its own annual Careers Fair, welcoming more than 20 exhibitors from a wide range of sectors. Students from Years 10 to 13 attend, engaging directly with employers and industry professionals to broaden their understanding of potential career routes. 

Preparing for Higher Education and Employment in Year 12 

Year 12 is a pivotal stage in students’ career development. Pupils attend the Jersey Skills Higher Education Fair, meeting representatives from over 30 universities and exploring entry requirements for leading UK institutions. 

Throughout the year, guest speakers from diverse industries share their career journeys, offering valuable insight and inspiration. As part of their weekly careers lessons, students create a professional CV and cover letter before taking part in a mock interview with local companies, receiving personalised feedback to help them improve. 

Students also research and apply for summer internships with on island employers. Using the Unifrog platform, they explore university courses, build shortlists, and begin drafting their personal statements in preparation for UCAS applications in Year 13.  

In July, Year 12 pupils take part in a dedicated work experience and volunteering week, gaining hands on experience in professional settings and supporting local primary schools and charities – a wonderful way to strengthen their connection with the local community.  

A Programme That Exceeds National Standards 

Victoria College is incredibly proud of its dynamic and forward-thinking careers programme, which aims to meet - and exceed - the national Gatsby Benchmarks for careers provision. Our students are empowered to explore their future pathways with confidence, ambition, and purpose.