Introduction

Strong links with local industry have been developed. Students benefit from relating their curriculum studies to the reality of commerce; from gaining placements for work experience and receiving awards from school competitions. This work raises the awareness of both students and teachers of the contribution made by our local industries to the immediate community and beyond it.

Careers Education

Vocational support and guidance is given to students as they progress through the College especially at times when important decisions have to be made. Career education and guidance is included in the Personal Development Programme which forms part of the curriculum of all students.

In addition, students may use the facilities provided by the Cambridgeshire Connexions Service in order to plan their futures, whether in employment or further education. This facility includes consultation with Connexions Advisors, visits to places of employment and further educational establishments, the use of the College’s Career Library and two weeks’ Work Experience in Year 10. Individual support and guidance is always readily available from the Tutor, Year Head, Head of Careers or the Vice Principal.

At 16, most of our students opt to go into further education - full and part-time courses are available at the City of Ely Community College, lmpington Village College, Long Road Sixth Form College, Netherhall Sixth Form Centre, Hills Road Sixth Form College, Cambridge Regional College and the College of West Anglia. Reports from the Sixth Form Centres show that many ex-Soham students do well at 'A' Level or vocational courses and a large percentage of them go on to gain distinction at Universities. Industrialists hold the College in high esteem and offers of employment have far surpassed the numbers of students available for recruitment.

More information can be found in the Careers Advice Section of the College Website

Work Experience

The College policy is to provide two weeks’ work experience for all students in Year 10. Work experience is one facet of bridging the gap between school and future employment and also between school and the more adult life of further education. Preparation for, and debriefing after, Work Experience is an essential part of the school curriculum and provides a significant contribution to a student’s personal Progress File.