Careers support

The option process is the first step in preparation for life after Ipswich Academy. Students will be supported throughout the option process and careers support is ongoing throughout year 10 and 11.

The options available at Ipswich Academy will offer students choice in securing a post 16 route.

Every student has to study mathematics, English and science. If students do not achieve a GCSE pass (grade 4 or above) in mathematics and English these subjects will have to continue post 16.

Getting advice

Take time to think about your decision.

You’ll be studying the subjects you choose for the next two years and the choices you make now can also affect your future direction.

Talk to a range of people to get different views. Speak to your parents, carers or relatives for a variety of opinions.

Booking a careers meeting

To arrange a meeting with our careers advisor Vicky Addis please email or call using the contact information below.

victoria.addis@paradigmtrust.org

01473 550040

What to think about

Consider which subjects you are good at, are interested in or enjoy.

The way courses are marked may also affect your choices. This is usually a mix of exams, controlled assessment (work completed on your own at school), and coursework, but the amount of marks awarded for each area can vary.

Choosing a balance of subjects may help to keep your future options open.

If you’re trying to choose between two subjects, think about how each option fits with your other GCSEs. Does a subject go well with your other choices? Or does a subject provide a welcome change? If you’re taking lots of essay-based subjects for example, it can be beneficial to include one choice with a more practical focus.

Planning your future

It’s worth looking ahead, as decisions you make now may narrow your choices later.

University courses have set entry requirements and may require certain subjects at A-level. In the same way, you many need a GCSE in a subject to study it at A-level. Check carefully as this is not always the case and you can start some subjects from scratch at A-level and university.

While your working life may seem years away, giving some thought to your career ideas now can make a real difference to your future and aspirations.

More information on careers and decision making

Ipswich Academy has funded your child’s subscription to Kudos. Kudos will give you all the information you need to make important decisions about future careers and what subjects, courses and training you can do to reach your career destination.

If you are unsure of what careers you might be interested in, Kudos can give ideas based on what you like and dislike. You can also discover what careers your subjects can lead to.

Packed with information on what employers are looking for, what you can earn and what qualifications you’ll need, Kudos is your passport to exploring your future. To find out more about Kudos, visit www.kudos.cascaid.co.uk

Other useful careers websites:

www.thesource.me.uk – information and advice for young people in Suffolk.

www.icanbea.org.uk - explore potential career opportunities across Suffolk.

www.nationalcareers.service.gov.uk - have many resources available online or you can arrange to speak to an advisor for free phone call.

www.icould.com – take the careers quiz to explore your interests and personal strengths.