Careers Guidance plays a crucial role at St. Patrick's & St. Brigid's College, and even more so now, because of the current economic climate and challenges facing our pupils. Access to Careers Guidance is important for all pupils as it enables them to make an effective transition from school to adulthood and employment.

Our college recognises the importance that Careers Guidance plays in an individual’s education and will therefore provide a range of opportunities for pupils to learn about the world of work, career pathways, and develop their employability skills. As an school we strive to ensure that the decisions our pupils make about their futures are well thought through and informed by the advice we provide and, therefore, can increase participation in learning and, in turn, raise attainment and support further progression. We aim to assist our pupils develop self-awareness, career awareness and career management skills so that they make informed decisions about their future pathways.

Careers Education within our college is embedded throughout the curriculum, and personalised one-to-one guidance is also available. The needs of the individual are met to good effect through a coherent, well-planned and progressive careers programme across all key stages and through scheduled meetings, to ensure the support of the individual aspirations of our pupils.  We value high quality, impartial careers education that helps young people negotiate the rapidly changing world of employment, and we seek to equip them with the right skills to do this effectively by providing comprehensive information and advice.  

We work with outside agencies, colleges and employers to provide pupils with the most up to date information. We have a specialist who also work with pupils offering advice, facilitating work experience and providing important employer links. Year 10 and Year 12 pupils have a dedicated Careers lesson on their timetable.

Here are some examples of provision:

Friday 20th October 2023
St. Columb’s College Career’s Fair 

Talks from the following providers:
St. Mary’s College Derry, North West Regional College, St. Mary’s University Belfast, St, Cecilia's College, Oakgrove Integrated, Thornhill College, St. Columb's College.

Pupils attended the GEMX Roadshow in Limavady and participated in Careers Week in the W/b Monday 4th March 2024.

Events to look forward to: GEMX event on Thursday 7th November 2024 and Careers Week in the W/b Monday 3rd March 2025.

Every Monday – Careers Service Interviews with Year 12 pupils

Tuesday period 1 – Post-16 options presentations from January 2025

KS4 Work Experience – During spring term (TBC)

Londonderry Chamber of Commerce link

CITB NI ‘Adopt a School’ Scheme - application passed

CEIAG Foyle Learning Community – 1 face to face meeting per term.

Mr J Ball is the teacher in charge of Careers at St. Patrick's & St. Brigid's College so please email info@spbcollege.claudy.ni.sch.uk if you would like to get in touch.