Parents

PARENTS & CARERS

Parent & Carer Guidance

At Orchardside School, every student will have access to a dedicated Careers Lead, work experience opportunities, and a variety of helpful resources to support them in making informed choices about their future.

We understand that parents and carers are often faced with a wide range of information when it comes to careers and post-16 options. To help with this, we’ve gathered some key resources on our careers page that we hope you’ll find useful.

Supporting your child with their next steps

At Orchardside School, we know how important your role is in helping your child plan for the future. In England, all young people must stay in some form of education or training until they turn 18. Whether they choose to continue studying, take up an apprenticeship, or start working, your guidance is key to helping them make the right decision.

Understanding their options

There are many different routes your child can take after Year 11, and it’s important they choose the one that suits them best. For many young people, this is the first time they’re making decisions that will shape their future, so it can feel overwhelming.

To support them, we’ve provided helpful information and guidance to make sure they understand their options and feel confident about making applications when the time comes.

How you can support

It’s common for young people to feel unsure or stuck about what to do next. That’s why your encouragement and support can make a big difference. On our website, you’ll find advice for parents and carers on how to help your child explore their options and move forward.

Also, keep in mind that Orchardside is committed to offering impartial careers advice and information, so your child will be supported every step of the way.

Useful Links

• Career Mag - Exclusive career advice and guidance from the experts and hiring managers.
• Talking Futures – Find out how options like T-Levels, apprenticeships and HTQs can unlock your child’s full potential.
• Youth employment UK - Expert careers advice for parents who want to help their child understand and explore their next steps.

Apprenticeships

• Amazing apprenticeships - designed to help parents & carers explore the exciting world of apprenticeships.
• The Parents’ Guide To - Provides information on career support at ages 16 and 18, including FE, HE, and apprenticeship
• UCAS -Comprehensive guides, virtual work experiences, and information on various apprenticeship types, including degree apprenticeships
• GOV.UK - Information on apprenticeships, including how to find and apply for them, as well as resources for parents and guardians

T-Levels

• T-Levels.gov - details on what T Levels are, their structure, entry requirements, and how they compare to other qualifications like A-Levels. 
• NCFE - resources for T Level providers, including materials to help engage parents and students
• Driffield school - topics like entry requirements, progression pathways, and the value of transferable skills

    College

• Birmingham City University – A-level guide for parents
• CloudLearn - offers tools and resources for parents to support their A-level students

National Careers Service - offer impartial advice and guidance on various post-16 pathways. Students/parents are able to search for local college courses nearby.