Careers and Futures

Introduction

Preparing our pupils to be successful global citizens and for their time after Lancing is an important part of our work at the College. The Lancing My Future programme starts as early as Third Form with the aim of preparing pupils to leave the College as confident, aspirational and self-aware young people.

The programme builds our pupils’ skills to prepare them for making choices about their future options and the Sixth Form. It also addresses the world of work; understanding strengths and weaknesses; building soft skills and engaging with different careers and employers.

Time is set aside in the timetable for a focused activity in each year group; with the support of tutors and teachers, pupils are encouraged to explore and develop ideas as part of their own self-managed learning.

About My Future

The programme builds on the success of the existing UCAS support and preparation programme, which is a highly regarded feature of the Sixth Form and evident in the range and quality of destinations achieved by Lancing pupils.

My Future starts early in our pupils’ journey, allowing Third Formers to explore the world of work, where life skills are part of a wider PSHE programme. This builds throughout the Fourth Form to a full programme of careers profiling and individual advice; in the Fifth Form, before GCSEs and A Level choices, pupils attend a careers conference where they are presented with a wide range of speakers and career options. Parents are also encouraged to be part of the programme as active participants and advocates.

Personal tutors, Housemasters/Housemistresses, teachers, UCAS specialists and independent careers advisers are vital elements of the programme, all playing an important part at various stages in the pupils’ journey. My Future also harnesses the enthusiasm and commitment of OLs and parents through dedicated activities such as the new University Ambassadors and Careers in Depth events, and the OL professional networks attended by Sixth Form pupils. In addition to the work done at the school, there are also opportunities to bring the world of work to life through sessions and events outside the school and across the academic, co-curricular and pastoral life at Lancing. 

Whilst the My Future programme crosses various year groups, there is a strong element of personalisation which recognises that each child is different and their journey will be unique. Pupils are increasingly encouraged to develop their interests, explore options and take ownership of their own journey under expert guidance and support.

Enrichment and Extension

There is a wide range of societies that thrive at Lancing, providing the opportunity for all pupils to enjoy and engage in different cultures, ideas and perspectives. 

Pupils are strongly encouraged to gain work experience during the holidays to help them build workplace skills and to begin to understand the world of work and potential careers options. This helps them focus on their choice of university course and adds a positive element to their UCAS personal statements. Although pupils are responsible for making their own arrangements, the school is usually able to help them find appropriate placements. The Young Enterprise Scheme gives pupils insight into commercial practices. Pupils who have plans for adventurous or challenging travel may apply for a travel bursary.