Not sure about what to do when you leave school?

Don’t panic.

Help is at hand!
 

 

The Aim Higher programme is a Government initiative aimed at increasing the number of students who continue with their education after leaving school. The programme is designed to enable parents and their children to find out about the options available in Higher Education. This takes place from year 8, when students are starting to make important decisions about their future.

 

Research has shown that the earlier children are informed about their choices the more likely they are to realise the qualifications they need to achieve their goals.

 

At Witton Park we have a cohort of students who have been identified as having the capability of continuing on in further and higher education after leaving school. They are supported through workshops run throughout the year by staff from Blackburn College. Students in Year 10 also go on a trip to Lancaster University to study University life first hand.

 

The Aim Higher Roadshow visited Witton Park in December. All students in 9W paid the show a visit learning about opportunities in Higher Education, what a University is, courses that are available etc.

 

In addition, students had the opportunity to take part in a two week drama project run by members of the Talia theatre Company. Working alongside professional actors the students developed an understanding of body language and intra-personal communication and gained an insight into emotional intelligence.

 

The course has allowed all the students to complete their Personal Challenge for their Trident Gold award as well as making them much more aware of how they communicate with others. Their last session involved a presentation to school staff – who (despite it being a Friday evening) all really enjoyed it. Francesca suggested that teachers should also go on the course as it will help them have a better understanding of their students!

 

The whole of year 10 were invited to visit Myerscough College to take part in Exp04. This was the largest careers convention in the North West and students had the opportunity to visit displays from 100s of employers from across the North West.