Careers Guidance

A brief description of the help and advice available

When pupils arrive at Dauntsey’s they begin a planned careers guidance programme. The programme reflects the fact that choosing a career is a process not an event. To this end in the fourth form pupils are subject to timetabled careers lessons as part of PSE, where they are introduced to the Careers library and during a series of seminars are made aware of many possible careers available and the necessity of acquiring a raft of essential skills. In the fifth form they take the COA “Preview” questionnaire supported by a series of psychometric tests called the “Cambridge Profile”; following the publishing of an individual report and a hand-over interview with a visiting COA Careers Adviser, they are encouraged to research ideas generated and to discuss plans further with their Tutor prior to making A-level choices. This is the first critical big step. Many therefore arrive in the Sixth Form with some idea about their career path, some may have very specific intentions, and some may still be exploring ideas and possibilities. At all stages and at any time pupils and parents are welcome to discuss ideas and career plans with the Schools Careers Adviser.

In the Sixth Form the pupils will receive, in addition to advice on University applications, a series of presentations on GAP year opportunities. It is a growing trend amongst Dauntseians to take a GAP year. Visits are also arranged to specific Career Fairs and workshops as well as University Open Days.

The Biennial Dauntsey’s Careers Convention with over 80 different careers represented, is a highlight of the Careers Department’s calendar; all members of the Upper School attend.

The School is a full member of ISCO and Lower Sixth students are made aware of their excellent Careers Experience Courses and are encouraged to apply.

J.J.Hutchinson

Senior Careers Adviser

UNIVERSITY ENTRANCE

Pupils are given guidance on how to go about the selection of suitable courses to study at University. The fact that there are over 300 Universities now in the UK offering in excess of 50000 courses the task is a seemingly daunting one. The following structured programme is followed at Dauntsey’s:

In the Spring term of their Lower Sixth year all pupils take the Cambridge Occupational Analysts “Centigrade” questionnaire; a report is produced for each pupil giving a selection of courses and Universities to consider and research further.
In March or April all the Lower Sixth attend the UCAS South West Area Higher Education Convention where over 150 Universities are represented and pupils can obtain up-to-date information directly and have any queries answered.
Concurrent with this there is a Higher Education Conference here at Dauntsey’s for all parents of pupils in the Lower Sixth. Speakers include a University Admissions Officer and a representative from the Year Out Group (GAP Year providers).

All pupils are encouraged to consult at any time House Staff, teachers and the Senior Careers Adviser about their ideas and plans. Specific advice on Oxford and Cambridge Entrance may be obtained from Mr R.G.D. Price.

Pupils are also strongly recommended to visit their final choices of University either at an official Open Day or by arrangement.

UCAS receives applications from 1 st September of the year prior to going up to University up until 15 th January. However for Oxford, Cambridge and Medical, Dental and Veterinary Schools the deadline is 15 th October.

Some candidates may defer their entry and take a GAP year. Some are best advised to apply post A-level.

In an increasingly competitive market for places at the top Universities, in addition to the requirement of high grades at A and AS-level, some institutions and/or some faculties will call candidates for interview. Interview practice is offered by Mrs.Lesley Cook.

J.J.Hutchinson

Senior Careers Adviser