Our Student Support team provides independent careers information, advice and guidance to help students explore their options and make informed choices.

Students can access support with:

• Exploring career options.
• Understanding different career pathways.
• Identifying suitable qualifications and routes into particular careers.
• Developing employability skills.
• Writing CVs and preparing applications.
• Preparing for interviews.
• Finding work experience opportunities.
• Exploring higher education and university options.
• Planning their next steps after College.

The College also organises careers events, workshops and opportunities to meet employers and other organisations.

Throughout the year, students can take part in activities designed to help them explore different careers and industries.

These can include:

• Careers events.
• Employer visits and talks.
• Careers workshops.
• Workplace and university visits.
• Opportunities to meet employers and training providers.
• Activities linked to students’ subjects and future career interests.

The main College careers event takes place in February and brings together local universities, training providers and employers.

Preparing for a career is about more than choosing a job.

Students are encouraged to develop skills such as communication, organisation, confidence, teamwork, problem-solving and resilience.

Next-steps planning and employability skills are embedded within the College’s curriculum and tutorial activities. The College also uses the VESPA programme – Vision, Effort, Systems, Practice and Attitude – to help students develop positive habits and ambitious aspirations for their future.

Work experience gives students the opportunity to develop their skills, experience different working environments and explore potential career pathways.

The College has a dedicated Work Experience Coordinator who supports students with organising placements.

Where possible, work experience and work-related activities are linked to students’ courses and career interests.

Itchen has established relationships with employers and organisations across a range of industries.

These partnerships provide opportunities for students to learn about different careers, meet professionals and gain an understanding of the skills and experience required in different sectors.

Parents and guardians can play an important role in helping students think about their future.

You can support your child by:

• Talking to them about their interests, strengths and ambitions.
• Encouraging them to explore different career options.
• Helping them research different pathways.
• Encouraging them to attend careers events and guidance appointments.
• Supporting them to gain work experience.
• Helping them develop confidence and independence when making decisions about their future.

It is important that students take ownership of their decisions, with support from their tutor, Student Support and careers staff when they need it.

Students can speak to members of the Student Support team for careers information, advice and guidance.

The College also provides access to a range of careers resources and websites, including:

National Careers Service
Explore careers, qualifications and the experience needed for different occupations.

iCould
Explore careers through real-life stories from people working in different industries.

Careers Box
Explore careers through videos and information about different roles.

All About Careers
Explore different career families and opportunities.

Access Southampton
Information and guidance to help young people make decisions about their future.

Students considering higher education can access specialist support with researching options, choosing courses and preparing applications.

The College provides higher education fairs, university visits, taster events, guest speakers, workshops and UCAS guidance.

There isn’t one route that is right for every student.

Students can explore university, apprenticeships, employment and other progression opportunities with support from the College.

Encourage your child to speak to their tutor or Student Support team if they are unsure about their options.

If your child would like careers or progression advice, they can speak to Student Support or arrange an appointment with the appropriate adviser.

Student Support

Telephone: 023 8043 5636

Email: awaters@itchen.ac.uk

For general College enquiries:

Email: info@itchen.ac.uk
Telephone: 023 8043 5636