Next Steps Programme

At Chellaston Academy, we are proud of the comprehensive guidance and support available to every Sixth Form student as they prepare for life beyond the Academy.

Students have a dedicated Next Steps lesson each fortnight, led by our Careers Lead and supported by tutors and teaching staff. We understand that choosing between university, an apprenticeship and employment can feel challenging. These sessions help students explore their options and develop the knowledge and skills needed to pursue their chosen pathway.

The programme includes guidance on:

• Exploring university courses and career pathways
• Finding and applying for apprenticeships
• Completing UCAS applications
• Writing effective personal statements
• Developing interview skills
• Preparing for employment

We encourage students to begin considering their next steps by the February half-term of Year 12. They explore a wide range of pathways, including university, apprenticeships, degree apprenticeships, gap years, years in industry and direct entry into employment.

During the summer term, students investigate these options in greater depth and register with UCAS, Unifrog and the Government’s apprenticeship service. Unifrog brings together a wide range of careers and progression resources for students and their parents or carers, while UCAS supports applications to universities and other higher-education providers.

Our aim is to ensure that every student is informed, confident and equipped to secure the best possible future.

Oxbridge, Medics, Vets and Dentists

Students applying to Oxford or Cambridge, or for highly competitive courses such as Medicine, Veterinary Science and Dentistry, receive a bespoke programme of support.

This includes:

• Regular subject-specific mentoring
• Specialist guidance throughout the application process
• Detailed reviews of application materials
• Interview preparation and mock interviews
• Support with relevant admissions tests

Where possible, admissions tests are facilitated in a familiar environment at the Academy.

Ongoing Support

All Year 12 students attend the annual UCAS exhibition, where they can meet representatives from different universities and explore the wide range of courses available.

Our specialist UCAS team supports students throughout the application process. Applications undergo a thorough quality-assurance process to ensure that each student submits the strongest possible application.

Our support continues until every student begins their chosen next step, even when their plans change at the last minute.

Further Information

These websites provide useful information and resources:

• https://www.ucas.com/
• https://www.unifrog.org/
• https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship