Career Development
“The school has a comprehensive careers programme in place to ensure that pupils have the information they need to access ambitious destinations. This includes pupils in the sixth form, where leaders support them to ensure that all can access their chosen destinations.”
— Ofsted 2023
Developing employability skills and gaining real insight into the world of work is an important part of our Sixth Form provision. In Year 12, every student takes part in a designated work experience week, where they secure a placement in a workplace of their choice. This gives them the chance to explore future career pathways, apply their skills in a professional environment, and build the confidence that comes from working alongside adults in a real-world setting.
In addition to this, all students complete a structured programme of virtual work experience as part of their daily Tutor Programme. This enables them to broaden their understanding of different industries and professions, and to gain exposure to a wide variety of employment sectors that they may not otherwise have the chance to experience.
There is also a programme of Careers Lunches, where professionals from a range of occupations hold talks with our students about careers within their sector. From doctors to engineers, physiotherapists to psychologist, we have every avenue covered!
These opportunities ensure that our students leave Sixth Form with more than just strong academic qualifications – they also leave with valuable employability skills, meaningful experience to enhance their CVs and university applications, and a clearer sense of direction for their future. By engaging with both physical and virtual placements, students gain adaptability, independence, and a professional mindset that will benefit them wherever their next steps take them.
EDA Futures
Preparing our students for life beyond Sixth Form is at the heart of what we do. As part of this commitment, we run a dedicated programme of EDA Futures Days throughout the year. These bespoke events bring professionals from a wide range of employment sectors into the Academy to work directly with our students.
The sessions are practical, interactive and focused on equipping students with the skills and confidence they need for the next stage of their journey. Topics include:
- Interview skills and techniques
- Writing application letters and CVs
- Using recruitment platforms effectively
- Building self-promotion and professional presence
- Understanding and navigating university applications
These days provide students with invaluable opportunities to learn from industry experts, gain insight into current employment trends, and develop the practical tools they will need to succeed in higher education, apprenticeships or the workplace.
EDA Futures Days ensure our students are not only academically prepared but also professionally confident. They leave Sixth Form with a clear sense of direction, well-developed employability skills, and the ability to present themselves effectively in any competitive environment.
Volunteering
All Year 12 students at Erasmus Darwin Academy are provided with the opportunity to take part in a weekly volunteering role within the Academy. This not only gives back to our school community but also allows students to develop valuable skills such as leadership, teamwork, organisation and communication.
Opportunities include:
- Senior Prefect duties – supporting the smooth running of the Academy and acting as role models for younger students.
- Reading Buddy – helping younger pupils to develop literacy and a love of reading.
- Lesson Support – assisting in classrooms and providing encouragement to younger learners.
- Extra-Curricular Club Leadership – running or supporting clubs and activities, sharing talents and passions with others.
- Charity Role – driving fundraising initiatives and supporting events that benefit both local and national causes.
Through these experiences, our students learn the importance of service, responsibility and initiative – qualities that prepare them exceptionally well for life beyond the Sixth Form.