Careers Guidance and Higher Education Support
We support every student with expert, personalised advice to help them navigate their post-18 future. Our commitment to providing current, impartial guidance ensures they’ll make informed decisions with confidence. Our most recent ESTYN inspection found that:
“Staff provide pupils with a broad range of guidance to help them to choose their future pathways… there are many opportunities to hear alumni speaking about their careers. The school gives pupils exceptional, bespoke guidance to assist them in making university applications or to choose other options available to them. Careers staff continue to provide this effective advice to pupils when they have left the school, should they continue to need information and support.” Estyn, 2024
At Howell’s, our Careers Programme is built on the foundation of best practices to support student success. We follow the Gatsby Benchmarks for Good Career Guidance and the Career Development Institute’s Career Development Framework, both recognised as leading standards in career education. These frameworks guide our efforts to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to navigate their future paths effectively.
College Careers Meetings
During College Careers Meetings, students take part in presentations and workshops led by Mrs Wilks, while also benefiting from the expertise of visiting speakers. These meetings are designed to prepare students for higher education, UCAS applications, apprenticeships, gap years, and entering the workforce. If a student is unsure about their post-18 options, they are encouraged to schedule an appointment with our qualified and experienced College Careers Adviser, Mrs Wilks. Through personalised guidance, she will help them reflect on their skills, interests, and abilities, empowering them to make informed decisions about their future path.
UCAS applications
Personal Tutors will support students in crafting an effective UCAS application. We are committed to encouraging students to reach their full potential and take on the challenge of applying for competitive courses at top universities, while also ensuring they make wise ‘insurance’ choices. Students will receive comprehensive support throughout the application process and are expected to take a proactive approach to meet internal deadlines.
Work Experience & Voluntary Work
Students are encouraged to pursue work experience that aligns with their career goals, personal development, and broader awareness of the workplace, helping them make informed decisions. Ideally, work experience should be completed during college holiday periods. If face-to-face placements are not possible, numerous high-quality virtual work experience programmes are available. Students are urged to leverage their family and friends network to secure placements and to take advantage of formal programmes that Mrs Wilks will regularly promote throughout the academic year.
Mock interviews and MMI workshops
Students will have the opportunity to sharpen their personal presentation and interview skills through mock interviews with subject specialists and industry professionals. Mrs Wilks provides ‘Confidence in Careers’ coaching, offering tailored interview preparation, and leads specialised healthcare MMI workshops. Dedicated support is available for students applying to competitive fields such as Dentistry, Medicine, and Veterinary Science, as well as those aspiring to attend Cambridge, Oxford, or apply internationally. Additionally, we offer expert guidance for students pursuing specialist pathways in art, drama, and music.
GDST Alumnae Network
GDST alumnae are a global network representing every professional sector, boasting over 100,000 members and growing each year. This vibrant community offers unparalleled opportunities for mentoring, professional networking, self-development, and social events.
Gap Years
Students considering a gap year or planning to travel in the summer before starting university are encouraged to speak with Mrs Wilks early in the academic year. She will provide comprehensive support throughout the gap year process, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their adventures. Additionally, Year 13 students can apply for the GDST Travel Scholarship, which is available to those planning either a gap year or summer travel. This scholarship offers exciting opportunities to enrich their experiences before embarking on their university journey or career paths.