At Corbridge Middle School, employer engagement is a planned and integral part of our personal development and careers provision, underpinned by a clear intent to raise aspirations and prepare pupils effectively for their future education and employment. Our approach aligns closely with the Gatsby Benchmarks, particularly Benchmark 5 (Encounters with Employers and Employees) and Benchmark 6 (Experiences of Workplaces), ensuring pupils benefit from meaningful, age-appropriate and progressive encounters throughout their time at the school.
The implementation of this provision draws upon the rich and diverse range of employers across the North East, enabling pupils to develop a broad and realistic understanding of the world of work. These encounters are carefully sequenced to complement the curriculum, challenge stereotypes and promote equality of opportunity. As a result, pupils are supported to develop confidence, resilience and ambition, while gaining essential knowledge and skills that contribute to their personal development.
The impact of our employer engagement programme is evident in pupils’ increasing awareness of future pathways and their ability to make informed choices about the next stage of their education. Research indicates that sustained employer engagement reduces the likelihood of pupils becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), and our provision reflects this evidence base. Through high-quality careers education and employer links, we ensure pupils are well prepared for transition and equipped with the attitudes and understanding required to succeed beyond Corbridge Middle School.
If you would like to support our careers programme, there are several meaningful ways to get involved:
- Assemblies: Held four times a week from 13:10 to 13:30, including special sessions during National Careers Week in March. These assemblies provide an excellent platform for employees to share their career stories, insights, and advice with our pupils.
- Annual Careers Fayre: This event offers the chance to introduce pupils to your organisation, showcase career pathways, and highlight future opportunities within your industry.
- Workshops or work-related activities: If it fits in with our Careers programme, we can host on our school site and activities can be tailored to meet pupils’ needs and might include specific talks, hands-on projects, initiatives, or competitions designed to engage and inspire.
- Extra-curricular Activities: You can also contribute by supporting lunchtime or after-school activities focused on careers education, skills development, and employability.
If you would like to get involved in our careers programme, please contact Mr Johnston (Careers Leader) via our school Office on: 01434 632191 or via email at: admin@corbridgemiddle.co.uk
You can find our Provider Access Policy on our Policies page