Careers

At Leigh Academy Oaks, we believe that every child is capable of shaping a bright and ambitious future. Our approach to careers education begins early and is woven seamlessly through our Primary Years Programme (PYP). Rather than viewing careers as a distant concept, we help pupils understand the world of work in meaningful, age-appropriate ways that connect directly to their learning.

Through our transdisciplinary units of inquiry, pupils explore a wide range of roles, skills, and real-world contexts linked to each central idea. Whether investigating how communities function, how technological systems work, or how we express ourselves creatively, learners encounter the professionals, industries, and pathways that bring these ideas to life. This helps pupils see purposeful links between their classroom learning and the broader world.

We nurture curiosity by inviting pupils to ask questions, engage with experts, and experience real-life scenarios. Visits, workshops, and interactions with professionals expand their understanding of possibilities and inspire aspirations. Our aim is not to steer pupils toward specific careers, but to empower them with the attitudes, skills, and confidence to pursue their interests as they grow.

Careers learning at Leigh Academy Oaks focuses on developing:

• Awareness of different jobs, roles, and community contributors
  
  

• Understanding of the skills and attributes needed for work and lifelong learning
  
  

• Curiosity and agency to explore personal interests and strengths
  
  

• Global-mindedness, recognising that career opportunities exist locally and worldwide
  
  

By embedding careers education within the PYP, we ensure that it is relevant, authentic, and accessible for all learners. Our pupils leave us with a strong sense of who they are, what they love to learn, and how they might positively impact the world in the future.