Careers strategy 2023 to 2025

The Gatsby Benchmarks set out a framework for schools to deliver 'good career guidance'.

1. A stable careers programme

Every school should have an embedded programme of career education and guidance that is known and understood by:

• students
• parents
• teachers
• governors
• employers

2. Learning from career and labour market information

Every student, and their parents, should have access to good quality information about:

• future study options
• labour market opportunities

They will need the support of an informed adviser to make best use of available information.

3. Addressing the needs of each student

Students have different career guidance needs at different stages. Opportunities for advice and support need to be tailored to the needs of each student. A school's careers programme should embed equality and diversity considerations throughout.

4. Linking curriculum learning to careers

All teachers should link curriculum learning with careers. STEM subject teachers should highlight the relevance of STEM subjects for a wide range of future career paths.

5. Encounters with employers and employees

Every student should have multiple opportunities to learn from employers about:

• work
• employment
• skills that are valued in the workplace

This can be through a range of enrichment activities, including:

• visiting speakers
• mentoring
• enterprise schemes

6. Experiences of workplaces

Every student should have first-hand experiences of the workplace through work visits, work shadowing and, or work experience to:

• help their exploration of career opportunities
• expand their networks

7. Encounters with further and higher education

All students should understand the full range of learning opportunities that are available to them. This includes both academic and vocational routes, and learning in:

• schools
• colleges
• universities
• the workplace

8. Personal guidance

Every student should have opportunities for guidance interviews with a careers adviser, who could be either:

• internal (a member of school staff)
• external, provided they are trained to an appropriate level

These should be available whenever significant study or career choices are being made.