Research shows that young women nationally do not always feel well prepared for their careers and futures.

At Sydenham High School, we are dedicated to changing this narrative through our Own Your Future Programme, which supports every girl in developing the skills and knowledge needed for successful educational and career choices.

By highlighting diverse opportunities and fostering curiosity, we inspire young women to forge their own paths. We recognise the importance of connecting them to the world around them and cultivating essential skills such as problem-solving and teamwork. These skills enhance emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and creativity. Whether their interests lie in climate science, robotics design, AI technology, aesthetics, or ethics, we are committed to igniting their passions and expanding their horizons for future potential.

Our Vision

We aim to inspire and equip our pupils with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to make informed decisions about their future careers. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every pupil has access to the resources necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving economy.

Own Your Future Programme

Our programme includes several key components to support our pupils in their career exploration and planning:

• Tailored lessons: timetabled Personal Social Health and Economic Education (PSHE) lessons for Years 7 to 11, and as part of the Power Skills Programme for Sixth Form students. These sessions aim to ensure that girls understand the range of options available and are fully supported to make the decisions that are right for them.
• Career Guidance:  One-on-one sessions with our dedicated Careers and Futures staff help pupils discuss their aspirations and create personalised career plans.
• Careers Events: Annual Careers Fairs and regular careers talks and workshops with industry professionals offer valuable insights and skills relevant to our pupils’ career aspirations.
• University and Apprenticeship Guidance: Comprehensive support in researching and applying for higher education and apprenticeship opportunities is provided. We provide access to a variety of placements, allowing pupils to gain practical experience and insights into different professions
• Resources and Tools: Our dedicated Careers Website and Newsletter provide valuable resources to help pupils explore career options and stay informed. We utilise specialist software, including Unifrog, across Years 7 to 13. Unifrog is a digital platform that supports pupils at every stage of their journey, offering tools for career exploration, skills assessments, and university or apprenticeship searches to guide them towards their aspirations.
• Future Skills: In response to growing employer concern over skills, this programme encourages all pupils to build their skills both within and beyond the classroom, teaching them to understand their wider importance and how to evidence their abilities.
• Alumnae Network: Sydenham High is part of the GDST network of over 100,000 successful alumnae, the largest all-female Linkedin networking group in the UK. The contacts, mentoring, job opportunities and event are now right at the fingertips of pupils venturing out into a tough employment marketing, giving them an invaluable advantage when finding a truly fulfilling career path.

Provisions for Different Year Groups
To ensure that all pupils receive the appropriate support at each stage of their education, we have tailored our provisions according to year groups:

• Year 7: Introduction to career exploration through workshops and activities designed to broaden pupils’ understanding of different professions.
• Year 8: Focus on self-discovery and encouraging pupils to identify their interests and strengths.
• Year 9: Careers fair and talks, and a workplace visit to provide insight into various career paths and subject choice for GCSE.
• Year 10: Development of careers research skills and one to one guidance meetings to explore future career aspirations.
• Year 11: Support with post-16 options, including advice on A-Level subject choices and vocational pathways, and work placement opportunities.
• Year 12: Workshops on university and apprenticeship applications, personal statements, and interview preparation, along with ongoing careers meetings and the Power Skills programme.
• Year 13: Focus on finalising university applications, securing apprenticeships, and preparing for life after school.

Get Involved

We encourage all pupils and parents to participate in the Own Your Future programme. Whether attending events, seeking guidance, or exploring new opportunities, your involvement is invaluable. For questions or more details, feel free to contact our Head of Careers and Futures, Ms Nicky Stoney, at .