Our career guidance programme is aligned with the national standards of the Gatsby Benchmarks for good careers guidance. 8 benchmarks apply to all education settings in England, from schools and 6th forms to FE colleges, HE universities, and employed status apprenticeships. The Gatsby benchmarks we strive to deliver are:
When we first meet you, we will discuss a range of subjects, and we will introduce the concept of IAG (Information, Advice, and Guidance), which happens naturally throughout our programmes, should you enrol on an apprenticeship.
We start by checking eligibility and asking, “Is this apprenticeship right for you?” We will also begin to look at the next steps. Where might this qualification take you? What might be the next qualification or job role?
Your tutor will talk about the work environment, employers and industry expectations,working with others, working as part of a team, as well as softer careers guidance and support on behaviour, attendance, punctuality, reliability, initiative, etc, which are all vital employment and careers skills. Your tutor will also talk to you throughout about further development in your skills and knowledge, and about higher-level or next-level qualifications which would support your career goals and aspirations.
From the midway point of your programme with us, there will be greater emphasis on the value of what you are learning and how you put your newfound skills, behaviours and knowledge into practice when thinking about your next steps, how you use your skill set, where you see your career progressing and of course, your ongoing development.
Pastoral and welfare support available
Pastoral and welfare support is always at hand. Speak to your tutor or, if you have any concerns, your Dedicated Safeguarding Lead is Stuart Prior, who can be contacted on safeguarding@nationalupskill.co.uk
Career guidance is encouraged for all
When looking for support or thinking about study or career choices, email careers@nationalupskill.co.uk. You can also speak directly to your tutor, who will be able to offer advice or direct you to the right resources.
We work closely with Employers
National Upskill work closely with employers to understand their skills needs across England. We utilise labour market information at times, as well as monitoring the press and speaking with our networks, to monitor and understand regional and national skills needs.
Apprenticeships are the way forward
No matter which political party you follow, one thing is clear: the UK must invest in Further Education and apprenticeships to build a stronger future for young people. As university enrolments decline and funding priorities shift, more resources are being directed into FE and apprenticeship programmes. This investment ensures every young person has access to high-quality training and real opportunities, setting them on the path to a fulfilling and successful career.