P1 - Know how to access career development information - sources of information can be found below

Good morning year 12

The spec for Unit 15 can be found here

We are now in a position to start the task for P1 for this 'Development planning for a career in any business' unit who's first learning outcome is:


For P1, learners will need to demonstrate that they have accessed a sufficient range (minimum six) sources of information to allow them to make an informed decision on their career choices. It is likely be that learners will gather information from a range of sources. These could include websites, journals, career packs, newspapers or company packs. The information learners provide should be sufficiently detailed and more than just a list. Set the assignment out as an information and advice guidance booklet as if it was designed by connexions for young people like you thinking about planning the next stage of their career.  The best ones will be given to Miss Plant so that she can use them to guide university choices as you enter year 13


Preparing for P2
'Know how to access different sources and different types of career related information so that we can use it to develop your career plan for P2.  By now you will have probably identified a career pathway which is starting to appeal to you.  This career path with almost certainly have a professional body or association associated with it and it is a resource that should be keen to know more about.  Last week I posted some links as examples of the professional associations that exist for the different professions.  Professional associations maintain standards within an industry and members usually subscribe (pay) to be associated with them.  Membership is often available at different levels based on your qualifications and experience.

Professional Associations
What professional association relates to your career, what is required for you to gain membership, how much does membership cost, what services are made available through this membership and what does your professional association provide in terms of ongoing training and development.

Trade Magazines and Newspapers
Each professional association will have their own publication and journal, which one relates to your chosen career?

Adviza at Oxford Spires Academy
Have you introduced yourself to the new team at OSA, made an appointment and ask how they can support the writing of your 'Career Development Plan' and choosing the right course for university.  They are in OSA on Wednesday's and Thursday's from September and only Wednesday's this term. 

Company career packs & graduate recruitment opportunities
Who are in the Times 100 list of graduate employers that you would consider working for? 

University Careers Services
Did you access any during your UCAS application process or do you still have to do this?

Career and recruitment fairs
When are the next career fairs in Oxford, they usually have one in the City Hall and Oxford University, last year OEBP held a massive event at the Kassam.  Are these dates in your diary?

National Skills Academies
The previous government sent up National Skills Academies for each sector of industry. Is there one for you that could offer development opportunities?

Internships and work experience?
Most of you will be competing with graduates who have left university several years before you for employment.  What voluntary work or internship can you demonstrate you have completed when you go for that first job or university interview.

The list above is not exhaustive and I look forward to seeing other sources of information that you discover as you carry out your research so that you can share these with the class next week.

Kudos by Cascaid
This piece if nifty software may just get you thinking about a career if you done already have one in mind. http://www.cascaid.co.uk/kudos/.  See Mr T for a USERNAME and PASSWORD..

Homework  / Coursework

Using the information from the above and your ongoing research  

P1 Whats next after L3 click here
P2 Career development planning click here

Good luck and enjoy

Mr T