College Links and Work Experience

College Link Courses

As part of assisting our students with the transition to the next stage of their education, Key Stage 4 pupils attend Link Courses at Guildford College, where they have options such as Art and Design, Carpentry, Motor Vehicles and Catering, and Merrist Wood Agricultural College, where they can do courses on Horticulture and Small Animals. Year 10 have a weekly 2-hour course, spending 6 weeks on each option. Year 11s choose two of the options covered in Year 10 and do a more intense course on each. The courses also cover money, travel and people skills and help the students adjust to a more adult environment.

Work Experience

Students in Year 10 undertake a two-week work experience placement. We use local, carefully vetted placements and work with the pupils on travel skills, independent living skills etc. Year 11 students who are not taking GCSE exams can also do an extra work experience placement.

Careers Advice / Connexions Service

The Specialist Careers Consultant at our local Connexions office is Mrs Ginny Willis, who has worked with staff at the school for many years and successfully advised both children and parents during that time. For non-Surrey pupils, Mrs Willis also provides the link to their own local Connexions Personal Advisor. Connexions provides information, advice, guidance and access to personal development opportunities for young people. It aims to remove barriers to learning and progression, and ensure young people make a smooth transition to adulthood and working life. Mrs Willis can be contacted on 01483 413207.