Features of best practice identified through the ETI evaluation of careers provision in post-primary schools
Models of delivery and curriculum continuity
Careers education is delivered through regular, timetabled lessons across the year, ensuring continuity in learning.
Provision is sequenced progressively across key stages, enabling pupils to build on prior experiences.
Careers learning is revisited regularly and linked across subjects, supporting deeper understanding.
Work-related learning and work experience
Work experience is integrated into a coherent programme, including structured preparation and reflection.
Placements are closely aligned to pupils’ aspirations and intended pathways.
Pupils engage in a range of employer encounters and real-life experiences, supporting informed decision-making.
Leadership, staffing and capacity for careers
Leaders of careers are provided with sufficient time and administrative support to plan and co-ordinate provision including access to relevant professional learning.
Schools have a clear, coherent programme across all key stages, informed by pupil need and destination data.
Provision is monitored and evaluated systematically to inform improvement.
Partnership working and external guidance
Schools maintain sustained relationships with careers advisers and external partners such as NISCA and CDI.
Pupils receive timely and personalised guidance aligned to key decision points.
External partnerships are integrated into a coherent programme, rather than delivered as one-off activities.
Quality of teaching, learning and assessment
Lessons are grounded in real-life contexts with clear links to future pathways.
Teaching supports pupils to develop self-awareness, independence and decision-making skills.
Careers education is embedded within whole-school planning and delivered consistently by informed staff.
Pupil experiences, understanding and outcomes
Pupils benefit from regular, structured careers provision, particularly at KS 4 and post-16.
Pupils are able to articulate their skills, understand progression pathways and make informed decisions.
Provision supports a clear understanding of both academic and vocational routes.
Provision for pupils with SEN
Pupils with SEN receive early, personalised guidance supported by multi agency collaboration.
Provision includes well-co-ordinated transition planning at key stages.
Schools provide bespoke programmes and adapted work-related experiences.
Resourcing, infrastructure and digital platforms
Pupils have access to reliable digital tools and structured careers information.
Schools provide appropriate spaces and resources to support guidance and independent research.
Administrative systems support the effective co-ordination of careers provision, including work experience.
