Careers Guidance for Students and Parents
At Sir Christopher Hatton Academy we are committed to ensuring that every student receives high-quality careers education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG) to support them in making informed decisions about their future.
Careers guidance is delivered through our Lifeskills curriculum, the Hatton Baccalaureate (HBACC), employer encounters, workplace experiences and one-to-one guidance sessions. Students are supported throughout their time at the academy to explore different career pathways and develop the skills needed for the future.
Independent Careers Advice
Students have access to independent and impartial careers guidance through our partnership with Prospects Careers Service.
Students receive a one-to-one careers guidance interview in:
- Year 10
- Year 12
Additional careers guidance appointments are available in Year 11 and Year 13 for students who require further support with their next steps, applications or career planning.
These meetings help students to:
- Explore career options
- Understand post-16 and post-18 pathways
- Receive support with college, university and apprenticeship applications
- Prepare for interviews and recruitment processes
Parents and students can also access independent careers advice online through the National Careers Service, which provides information about careers, courses and job opportunities.
National Careers Service
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
If students or parents would like further support or to request a careers guidance appointment, please contact the careers team:
Miss J. Coe
Assistant Principal – Careers, Character, Pastoral Curriculum and Educational Visits
Mrs V. Forbes
Extra-Curricular and Community Manager
Email: careers@hattonacademy.org.uk
Telephone: 01933 226077
Careers Research and Online Platforms
Students are encouraged to research careers and future pathways using online careers platforms.
Unifrog
All students have access to Unifrog, our online careers platform.
Unifrog allows students to:
- Explore different careers and industries
- Research university courses, apprenticeships and training opportunities
- Track careers activities and work experience
- Create CVs and record achievements
- Explore labour market information and progression routes
Students can access Unifrog at: www.unifrog.org
All students are provided with their own login and are encouraged to use the platform both in school and at home.
National Careers Service
Students can also research careers, jobs and training opportunities through the National Careers Service website.
The website provides information about:
- Job roles and career pathways
- Qualifications and skills needed for different careers
- Apprenticeship and training routes
- Labour market information and salary expectations
Website: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are an increasingly popular pathway that allow students to earn while they learn, gaining work experience while studying towards recognised qualifications.
Apprenticeships are available in many industries and at different levels, including:
- Intermediate Apprenticeships (Level 2)
- Advanced Apprenticeships (Level 3)
- Higher Apprenticeships (Level 4–5)
- Degree Apprenticeships (Level 6–7)
Find Apprenticeships – Government Apprenticeship Service
Students can explore apprenticeship opportunities through the Government Apprenticeship Service.
Students can:
- Search for apprenticeship vacancies
- Explore apprenticeship levels and career sectors
- Create an account and sign up for email alerts when new apprenticeship opportunities become available
Website: https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
Additional information about apprenticeships can also be found at:
Amazing Apprenticeships: https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com
Local Apprenticeship Training Providers
Students may also explore apprenticeship opportunities through local training providers who work directly with employers.
Starting Off
Starting Off is a Northamptonshire-based recruitment and training organisation that supports young people to begin careers through apprenticeships and employment opportunities.
They specialise in office-based apprenticeships in areas such as:
- Business Administration
- Customer Service
- Digital Marketing
- ICT
- Accounting
- Team Leadership
Starting Off supports students with:
- Finding apprenticeship vacancies
- Preparing CVs and applications
- Interview preparation
- Completing apprenticeship training alongside employment
Website: https://startingoff.co.uk
Apprenticeships Through Local Colleges
Many local colleges also offer apprenticeship programmes in partnership with employers.
Northampton College Apprenticeships
Northampton College offers apprenticeship opportunities across sectors such as construction, engineering, health and social care, digital and business.
Website: https://www.northamptoncollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships
Bedford College Group Apprenticeships
The Bedford College Group provides apprenticeship training across a wide range of industries and works with employers across the region.
Website: https://www.bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk/apprenticeships
Local Further Education Colleges
Students may choose to continue their education at a local further education college after Year 11.
Local colleges offering a range of academic and vocational courses include:
Northampton College
https://www.northamptoncollege.ac.uk
Tresham College
https://www.tresham.ac.uk
Moulton College
https://www.moulton.ac.uk
These colleges offer a wide range of courses, including:
- A Levels
- Vocational and technical qualifications
- T Levels
- Industry-based training programmes
Students are encouraged to attend open evenings and college events to learn more about the courses and opportunities available.
Different Pathways After School
Students follow many different pathways after school. Some students progress directly to A Levels, university or apprenticeships, while others may begin with foundation or entry-level programmes designed to develop skills and confidence.
Possible routes include:
- Level 1 or Level 2 college courses
- Foundation learning programmes
- Traineeships and supported internships
- Vocational training programmes
- Employment with training
These pathways help students develop skills and experience before progressing to further qualifications or employment.
Further information about career pathways and opportunities can be found at:
National Careers Service
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
Students and parents are encouraged to speak with the careers team if they would like advice on the most appropriate pathway.