Citizenship incorporating Careers Education and Guidance

Aims

The Bow School Citizenship curriculum aims to prepare our students for an active, involved adulthood, one where they are aware of their rights and responsibilities as citizens, employee's and learners; in which they lead a healthy and safe lifestyle; and where they are equipped and willing to work with others to achieve common goals.

From the Citizenship curriculum students study Legal and Human Rights, Diversity, Government, Voluntary Groups, Conflict Resolution, Media, Careers, Elections and political activism and the Global Community. From the PHSSE curriculum students explore identity, health and personal well being as well as developing work related learning skills including leadership and risk.

The Citizenship Curriculum: Key Stage 4

In Years 10 and 11 students study Citizenship as part of the OCR GCSE Humanities. They complete modules on Politics, Law, Human Rights, Economics and The World of Work including an extended research project in the form of a piece of coursework which contributes to their final grade.

Additional Citizenship Activities: KS3 & KS4

As well as the formal curriculum which takes place in lesson time there are many more Citizenship activities happening at Bow School, here is just a small taster:

• Many university visits each year including annual visits to Cambridge, UEL and Greenwich
• Visits to the Houses of Parliament including Downing Street
• Field studies in the local community

Careers Education and Guidance

Work Experience - Year 10

All Year 10 students recently completed a 2 week work placement organised in conjunction with Tower Hamlets Education Business Partnership. The aim of the placement was to provide students with an insight into the world of work. Students analyse their skills and qualities before attending and write an action plan which supports them in developing their skills. At placement they keep a log of their experience and reflect on their progress and achievements once they are back in school.

Connexions Careers Guidance

All Year 11 students are entitled to a one to one Careers Interview with the Careers advisor from Connexions, the aim is to ensure every student has an offer of a place either in work, training or at college by the end of Y11. Students are given time and support in lessons and tutor time to complete application forms and prepare for interviews.

Progress File

Students spend a significant amount of time between Y7 and when they leave Y11 preparing their Progress File - a record of their time and achievements at Bow School. The file is used to demonstrate to employers and colleges the suitability of the student and can make the all the difference to whether an interview is successful or not.