We can offer a wide range of activities and workshops to help your school meet its Gatsby Benchmarks.
Guided by MATRIX and Gatsby benchmarks, our sessions provide impartial IAG at key times within the student careers and education journey so that students can consider all their options, whilst tackling common misconceptions and preconceived beliefs.
Our core programme is aimed at Years 10 and 11 in line with the student journey, however we can also support with ad hoc activities for Years 8 and 9. We encourage you to contact us if you have any specific requests.
Gatsby Benchmarks
Explore our wide range of activities and workshops below:
The Perfect Place to Start
Through an engaging careers quiz and expert guidance, pupils will gain valuable insights into various professions that suit their strengths whilst identifying and enhancing their own employability skills.
Audience: Year 10
Recommended timing: Sep-Mar
Mode of delivery: Classroom or virtual workshop
Essential resources:
Access to computers and wi-fi for students
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 2, 3, 7, 8
Career Quest: Navigating the Job Market
This session is aimed at enlightening learners to hidden jobs in the top labour markets in GM. Through myth busting and interactive games, we will help learners to make informed decisions on their career path.
Audience: Year 10
Recommended timing: Sep-Mar
Mode of delivery: Classroom or virtual workshop
Essential resources:
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 2, 3, 7
Understanding Post-16 Pathways
Explore the variety of post-16 options, including T Levels, A Levels, Apprenticeships & Vocational training. The aim of this session is to help learners discover what is best suited to individual learning styles and aspirations.
Audience: Year 10
Recommended timing: Mar-Jun
Mode of delivery:
Classroom or virtual workshop
Assembly.
Essential resources:
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 3, 7, 8
Leaving the Nest: Exploring College Life
Environment can play a big part in individual success. In this session, learners will look at the key differences in Further Education settings and through case scenarios can gain an understanding of which is their best fit.
Audience: Year 10
Recommended timing: Mar-Jun
Mode of delivery:
Classroom or virtual workshop
Essential resources:
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 3, 7
A Levels and T Levels
Deciding between A Levels and T Levels can be a difficult decision for young people. Through a light-hearted debate, learners will gain a balanced understanding of both
pathways. This will empower learners to understand whether an academic or technical route will most suit their individual career journey.
Audience: Year 10
Recommended timing: Mar-Jun
Mode of delivery:
Classroom or virtual workshop
Essential resources:
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 3, 7
Apprenticeships
In our experience, some pupils have misconceptions on apprenticeships and what they involve. The aim of this session is to unpick these false narratives, whilst highlighting the real benefits of pursuing this pathway.
Audience: Year 10
Recommended timing: Mar-Jun
Mode of delivery:
Classroom or virtual workshop
Assembly.
Essential resources:
Access to computers and wifi for students
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 2, 7
School Leaver Presentation
Mainly delivered in an assembly, this is a broad introduction to The Manchester College, covering our courses, facilities, support teams and much more.
Audience: Year 10/11
Recommended timing:
Year 10: Jun-Jul
Year 11: Sep-Oct
Mode of delivery:
Assembly
Classroom presentation
Virtual options available.
Essential resources:
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 7
T Levels at The Manchester College
T levels have quickly become a first choice qualification for many students across the country. Pupils will explore our wide range of specialisms and what career opportunities are available beyond these.
Audience: Year 10
Recommended timing: Mar-Jun
Mode of delivery:
Classroom or virtual workshop
Assembly.
Essential resources:
Access to computers and wifi for students
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 2, 7
Campus Tours
Book a place on one of our campus tours allowing learners to see our industry standard facilities for themselves, helping them to become familiar with their future learning
environment.
Audience: Year 11
Recommended timing: Sep-Dec
Mode of delivery:
Campus based
Essential resources:
Individual access requirements
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 3, 7, 8
College Life
To settle pupils’ nerves, we’ll guide them through the transition from school to college, gaining insight, practical tips, and strategies to smoothly navigate the challenges and embrace the opportunities that come with their next steps.
Audience: Year 11
Recommended timing: Mar-Apr
Mode of delivery:
Classroom or virtual workshop
Essential resources:
A projector/large screen
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 3, 7, 8
Application Workshop
Supporting pupils through completing and submitting their application to The Manchester College. We can cater to each school’s timetable and environment including lunchtime and after school drop-ins.
Audience: Year 11
Recommended timing: Sep-Jan
Mode of delivery:
Classroom or virtual workshop
Essential resources:
Access to computers and wifi for students
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 3, 7, 8
CV and Personal Statements
Equip pupils with the essential skills to create a standout CV and compelling personal statement. They will get the chance to identify and showcase their own strengths and
capabilities to share with colleges, universities and employers.
Audience: Year 11
Recommended timing: Sep-Jan
Mode of delivery:
Classroom or virtual workshop
Essential resources:
Access to computers and wifi for students
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 3, 7, 8
Ace Your Interview
Designed to equip pupils with the essential skills and confidence needed to excel in interviews. Preparing students with what to expect and how to ensure they make a lasting
impression.
Audience: Year 11
Recommended timing: Sep-Jan
Mode of delivery:
Classroom or virtual workshop
Essential resources:
A projector/large screen.
Gatsby Benchmarks:
1, 3, 7, 8