Gatsby Benchmarks

The Gatsby Benchmarks were developed on behalf of the Gatsby Foundation by Sir John Holman to define world class careers provision in education. They provide a clear framework for delivering the Careers provision at Riversides School.

Key Stage 3

• During years 7 and 8 students investigate various aspects of careers education in career lessons, and by accessing dedicated careers websites such as National Careers Service. (Gatsby Benchmarks 2,3 and 4)
• In Years 7 and 8 our students attend encounters with employers who provide opportunities for interactive events (Gatsby Benchmarks 2 and 5)
• In Year 9 our students attend Post 16 career events where they meet representatives/students from local colleges and sixth forms, plus higher education, and employers. Students will learn about all options; Btechs, apprenticeship’s, A-levels and T-levels. They also meet employers. (Gatsby Benchmarks 2,5 and7)
• Teachers in all subjects show students short career presentations, making explicit links to the curriculum. (Gatsby Benchmarks 2 and 4)
• We support Year 9 students to volunteer within the local community as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme (Gatsby Benchmarks 5 and 6)

Key Stage 4

• We encourage all students to consider their career possibilities throughout years 10 and 11. We provide impartial guidance and information on post 16 options through career lessons, use of assemblies, career and college visits.
• In year 10 our students attend career events where they meet up to eight employers. (Gatsby Benchmarks 2 and 5)
• In the summer term of year 10, all students are encouraged to participate in a week of Work Experience learning how businesses operate and gain awareness of the demands and expectations of working life. (Gatsby Benchmarks 5 and 6)
• One- to-one career interviews with the Careers Advisor take place for year 10 students during the summer term, these continue into year 11. The data collected from interviews, combined with information about proposed destinations obtained from all students, results in a clear picture about post 16 intentions. A further interview is prioritised for any targeted students, based on identification of need and support requirements and their progress is monitored. (Gatsby Benchmarks 2,3,7 and 8)
• In year 11 students focus on making informal choices after GCSEs. Every local post 16 institution is invited into school go give a year 11 assembly about what have to offer. (Gatsby Benchmarks 2,3 and 7)
• College open evening dates are circulated to all students, parents/carers via the school website. (Gatsby Benchmarks 2 and 7)
• Teachers in all subjects show students short career presentations, making explicit links to the curriculum. (Gatsby Benchmarks 2 and 4)
• We encourage key Stage 4 students to volunteer within the local community as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. (Gatsby Benchmarks 5 and 6)