WORK RELATED LEARNING

Work-Related Learning Roadmap: Years 7–11

The Work-Related Learning curriculum from Year 7 to Year 11 is designed to provide a progressive, step-by-step pathway that develops students’ understanding of the workplace, builds confidence, and prepares them for future employment and independent living.

From September 2026, the programme will align with Talentino, a structured careers and employability framework. Talentino supports students in developing self-awareness, workplace skills, and career readiness through practical and accessible learning experiences. Much of our existing Work-Related Learning provision already reflects Talentino’s strategies, ensuring continuity and a strong foundation as the programme is embedded.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9)

At Key Stage 3, the focus is on early exposure, confidence-building, and developing personal and social skills linked to employability.

• Year 7:
  Students are introduced to the concept of jobs and roles within the school environment, learning to recognise different staff roles and responsibilities. This helps build awareness of the working world in a familiar context. A strong emphasis is placed on developing confidence and communication skills.

• Year 8:
  Students begin to develop responsibility and teamwork skills, which can often be a challenge. Activities are designed to support collaboration, turn-taking, and understanding shared goals, all of which are essential for future employment.

• Year 9:
  Students move into Emerald and Forest pathways, where learning becomes more focused on practical preparation for future careers.

  • Both pathways explore real-world employability skills, such as organising tasks, problem-solving, and early preparation for employment.
  • Students are introduced to key concepts such as how to write an appropriate CV, understanding personal strengths, and recognising different career pathways.
  • Forest Pathway: Students are given increased challenge, with greater independence and higher expectations.
  • Emerald Pathway: Learning is scaffolded to ensure accessibility, with structured support to build confidence and success.

Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11)

At Key Stage 4, students apply their skills in real-life contexts, preparing directly for employment and adulthood.

• Work Experience and Practical Application:
  In Year 10, all students have the opportunity to explore work placements, allowing them to practise their skills in real-world environments. This is a key stage in building independence, confidence, and understanding of workplace expectations.

• AIM Employability Skills Qualification:
  All students are entered for the AIM Employability Skills qualification, which supports the development of essential workplace competencies such as communication, organisation, and problem-solving.

  • Jade Pathway:
    Students are supported to achieve Level 1, and where appropriate, may progress to Level 2, ensuring the qualification meets their individual needs and abilities.

  • Emerald and Forest Pathways:
    Students are provided with more challenging content, tailored to their career aspirations and progression routes. They will be working towards and aiming to achieve Level 2, preparing them for further education, training, or employment.

Summary

The Work-Related Learning roadmap ensures a structured and meaningful progression from early awareness of jobs to real-life work experience and accreditation. With the integration of Talentino, students benefit from a nationally recognised framework that enhances career readiness. Through personalised pathways, practical experiences, and relevant qualifications, students are supported to develop the skills, confidence, and independence needed for successful transitions into adult life and employment.