Access to Personal Guidance

The college provides all students with access to high-quality, impartial careers guidance through its in-house team of professionally qualified Careers Advisers. All advisers hold a Level 7 careers guidance qualification, adhere to the CDI Code of Ethics, and undertake regular professional development to ensure up-to-date and informed support.

Students are made fully aware of how to access personal guidance, with regular reminders shared during tutorials and through the Symonds Lecture Programme. This information is also communicated to parents and carers via newsletters and parents’ evening events.

The Careers Department is based in the Ashurst Building (Room AT104) and is easily accessible to all students. The location is well-advertised, and Careers Assistants are always available on the reception desk to the department to help students book appointments, as well as to provide general information and support.

Types of Careers Appointments Available

Students can choose from three types of appointments with our experienced Careers Advisers, depending on their needs. Appointments can be booked via the Careers Intranet, by telephone, or by visiting the department in person.

• Guidance Appointments
  • Duration: Up to 50 minutes
  • Purpose: To explore options in depth, make informed decisions, and consider future pathways
  • Best for: Students who are unsure of their next steps or need help weighing multiple career or study options
  • Booking: Available up to 2 weeks in advance
• Information & Advice Appointments
  • Duration: 20 minutes
  • Purpose: To get practical advice and support, such as with personal statements, CVs, UCAS applications, job applications, or apprenticeship research
  • Booking: Available up to 24 hours in advance
• Lunchtime Drop-In Appointments
  • Duration: 5–10 minutes
  • Purpose: For quick questions or brief information
  • Booking: Not required – simply drop in during lunchtime hours (available every day)