At Holy Cross Catholic High School, pupils begin exploring their future pathways from Year 7 through a comprehensive and integrated Careers Programme that is fully aligned with the Gatsby Benchmarks. We recognise that one of our key responsibilities is to equip young people with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to thrive in an ever-changing world of work and further education.

Careers education is delivered through our Personal Development Curriculum, which takes place throughout the academic year. These dedicated opportunities enable pupils to explore a wide range of career pathways, develop a greater understanding of their strengths and areas for growth, and raise their aspirations for the future. Through engaging activities, employer encounters and career-focused learning, pupils are empowered to make informed decisions about their next steps and achieve their full potential.

Careers Pathway Document 2026

Year 7

Pupils in Year 7 will recognise their own interests, strengths and values, and understand that a wide range of future career pathways exist.

Year 8

Pupils in Year 8 will explore different career sectors and understand how GCSE choices link to future education and employment pathways.

Year 9

Pupils in Year 9 will make informed GCSE choices by linking their skills, interests and aspirations to possible career pathways.

Year 10

Pupils in Year 10 will develop employability skills and gain insight into the workplace through meaningful employer encounters and experiences.

Year 11

Pupils in Year 11 will evaluate and select appropriate post-16 pathways based on informed understanding of options.

Post-16 Pathways (from September 2026)

Choosing the right post-16 pathway is an important step in every young person’s educational journey. The range of qualifications and programmes available to pupils offers opportunities to suit different strengths, interests and career aspirations. Whether pupils are considering academic study, technical qualifications, vocational learning or apprenticeships, there are multiple routes that can lead to higher education, further training or employment. The table below provides an overview of the main post-16 options, helping pupils and families make informed decisions about their future.

A Levels

Level 3 – 2 years

Best suited to: Pupils who prefer academic study and may wish to progress to university. Typically studied as 3 subjects.

Progression routes: University, Higher Apprenticeships, Degree Apprenticeships, Employment.

T Levels

Level 3 – 2 years

Best suited to: Pupils seeking a technical qualification with substantial industry placement and a clear route into a specific sector.

Progression routes: University, Higher Apprenticeships, Degree Apprenticeships, Skilled Employment.

V Levels

Level 3 – Typically 2 years

Best suited to: Pupils who want a broad vocational qualification that combines practical and academic learning. Can be studied alongside A Levels where appropriate.

Progression routes: University, Employment, Higher Apprenticeships, Further Technical Study.

Apprenticeships

Levels 2–7 – 1–6 years depending on level

Best suited to: Pupils who wish to earn a salary while gaining qualifications and workplace experience.

Progression routes: Employment, Higher or Degree Apprenticeships, Further Training.

BTECs

Levels 1–3 – 1–2 years

Best suited to: Some BTECs and Applied General Qualifications remain available during the transition period, although many are being phased out as V Levels are introduced.

Progression routes: University, Employment, Apprenticeships, Further Study.

Level 2 Occupational Certificate

Level 2 – Typically 2 years

Best suited to: Pupils who want to develop occupation-specific skills leading towards employment in a particular sector.

Progression routes: Employment, Apprenticeships, Level 3 Technical Qualifications.

Level 2 Foundation Certificate

Level 2 – Typically 1 year

Best suited to: Pupils who need further preparation before progressing to Level 3 study. Broad vocational programmes linked to occupational sectors.

Progression routes: T Levels, V Levels, A Levels (where appropriate), Further Study.

Foundation Learning

Entry Level–Level 1 – Flexible

Best suited to: Pupils requiring additional support to develop personal, social, employability and study skills before progressing to Level 2 programmes.

Progression routes: Level 2 Foundation Certificate, Apprenticeships, Further Education Programmes.

Careers

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Careers Notice Board

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Gatsby Benchmarks

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