Real-world experiences shape sixth form students’ futures

Since the start of the academic year, students at St John Bosco Arts College Sixth Form have explored a range of career pathways during external trips, visited higher education institutions and participated in workshops to build their employability skills as part of the Croxteth-based sixth form’s enrichment programme. 

Learning from frontline professionals

Year 12 students recently discovered careers across healthcare and the emergency services at the North West Ambulance Service’s awareness day. The event was held at Aintree Racecourse where students met with staff from across the emergency services. They listened to stories about working on the frontline and took part in a range of hands-on learning experiences. This included CPR training delivered by first responders.

Emily, a Year 12 student, said:

“I really enjoyed the ambulance awareness day trip because I got to speak to different professionals and explore careers I didn’t even know existed. I even got the opportunity to learn CPR, and it taught me a valuable life-saving skill. The experience opened my eyes to new opportunities and helped me think more about my future career.”

A taste of university life

Meanwhile, Year 13 students experienced life as higher education students at the University of Liverpool. During their visit, students toured the campus, sat in on a taster criminology lecture and medical seminar, and gained valuable insights into the UCAS application process.

Part of the day’s activities also involved students learning how to navigate and make the most of the university library.  

The trip was organised by IntoUniversity, a national charity supporting young people to achieve higher education, employment or work-based training.

Year 13 student, Nathan, said:

“I had the opportunity to explore the University of Liverpool, getting the chance to explore the campus and see what university life could be like. The visit also helped me understand more about the UCAS application process and what I need to do to apply for university in the future. Now, I am considering applying to the University of Liverpool after sixth form.”

Preparing students for their next steps

Preparing young people for higher education and the world of work through a range of opportunities, including work experience opportunities, is an integral part of St John Bosco Arts College Sixth Form’s provision, enabling students to make informed choices about their next steps.

The success of this careers-focused approach is reflected in the outcomes of last year’s Year 13 leavers, many of whom progressed on to a variety of destinations directly supported by the opportunities provided by the sixth form.

This includes Phoebe who is now studying early childhood at Liverpool Hope University following the completion of her A-level studies in the summer.

Phoebe said:

“The support and encouragement I received from my teachers helped me achieve the grades I needed to progress to university. Sixth form also helped me discover my future career aspirations and I’m now studying early childhood at Liverpool Hope University. I honestly wouldn’t have got to where I am today without their support.”

Opening doors to future opportunities

Miss Charlotte Lyon, head of sixth form, said:

“At St John Bosco Arts College our aim is twofold: to enable students to achieve the best academic qualifications, whilst supporting them to develop as mature twenty-first century citizens ready for life after school.

“There are so many opportunities available to students in today’s world, and we are committed to providing experiences which open doors, inspire ambition and prepare them for the future through our enrichment programme.”

Current Key Stage 4 students and their families can discover St John Bosco Arts College’s thriving sixth form at its upcoming open evening on Thursday, 12 November from 5pm until 7pm.