Woolston Brook School

By Mark Cullen (Careers Lead & Communications Coordinator)

On the 9th of October 2024, Year 11 students from Woolston Brook SEMH School in Warrington participated in a series of individual interviews, each lasting 30 minutes, with Sharon Jenkins, an Education and Employment Advisor for Warrington Life. This opportunity aimed to provide the students with invaluable guidance and support as they prepare to transition from education to employment, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the challenges and decisions they will encounter in their futures.

The role of an Education and Employment Advisor is multifaceted and influential in shaping the educational and career trajectories of young individuals. Within the context of Woolston Brook SEMH School, Sharon's purpose was not merely to impart information, but to instil confidence and motivation in students facing varying levels of academic and personal challenges. Her expertise encompasses career guidance, education support, job search assistance, personal development, employment support, workshops, and the monitoring of progress.

Career Guidance
Sharon Jenkins commenced each interview with an exploration of the students’ aspirations and interests, inviting them to share their thoughts on potential career paths. This aspect of the role is crucial, as it helps students to align their skills, interests, and qualifications with viable career options. By discussing different industries and outlining the qualifications or experience needed for various professions, Mrs Jenkins was able to provide tailored advice that resonated with each student’s unique context.

In an environment where self-doubt may be prevalent, particularly among students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, Sharon's empathetic approach served to empower them. She noted during the interviews that "it was a really positive day and you have some really bright sparks in your Year 11." This perspective not only affirms the potential within the students but also reinforces the importance of fostering a positive mindset when considering future career options.

Education Support
Beyond career discussions, Sharon Jenkins played an integral role in guiding students toward appropriate educational pathways. This support included identifying suitable courses, apprenticeships, or vocational training that align with their career aspirations. She provided insights into the application processes for further education and how to prepare compelling applications for colleges or vocational training programmes. The emphasis on education support is particularly significant for students in settings like Woolston Brook, where additional barriers may exist.

Sharon expressed her belief that "we can get a really strong result for these young people," demonstrating her commitment to not only providing advice but also fostering an environment where success is attainable. Throughout the interviews, students were encouraged to view education not as an obligation, but as a stepping stone towards their future aspirations.

Job Search Assistance
An essential component of the interviews was focused on job search assistance, wherein Sharon shared strategies for seeking employment post-education. She provided insights into effective job searching methodologies, including where to locate job openings and how to leverage networking opportunities.

Furthermore, Sharon discussed the importance of building rapport with local employers, detailing how she sometimes coordinates with businesses to facilitate job placements or apprenticeships for her clients. This connection is vital, as it opens avenues for students which might otherwise remain inaccessible. The students were encouraged to actively seek these opportunities, thereby gaining first hand knowledge of workplace environments while also developing essential professional networks.

Personal Development
An often-overlooked aspect of education and employment preparation is personal development. Sharon dedicated a portion of her interviews to helping students cultivate soft skills that are crucial for both education and future employment. Skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management were highlighted as key attributes that increasingly characterise successful individuals in any field.

Encouraging students to set achievable, incremental career goals was another significant element of the discussions. Through the development of structured plans to meet these goals, students were able to conceptualise their future more clearly. Sharon’s approach emphasised that personal growth is a continuous journey, and success is defined not solely by the destination, but also by the progression made along the way.

Monitoring Progress
The final dimension of Sharon role revolves around monitoring the progress of the students she works with. This aspect is essential, particularly for individuals transitioning between education and employment, as it provides a framework for continued support and development. By maintaining a record of each student's journey, Sharon can tailor her support to meet their evolving needs effectively, ensuring that no student feels lost or overlooked.

The interviews held with Sharon Jenkins, highlight the critical importance of education and employment support for Year 11 students at Woolston Brook SEMH School. The comprehensive guidance provided encompasses career advice, educational pathways, practical job search skills, and a robust personal development framework. Sharon epitomises the role of an Education and Employment Advisor, not only by imparting knowledge, but by nurturing each student's potential and equipping them with the tools necessary to navigate their future successfully.

As Sharon aptly stated, "Thanks for making me so welcome. It has been a real pleasure today…. It’s lovely to see them starting to thrive." Her observations reflect the transformative nature of dedicated support in education, particularly for young individuals with SEMH needs. Overall, the engagement with Sharon Jenkins stands as a testament to the impact an Education and Employment Advisor can have in empowering students towards promising futures, illustrating that when guided effectively, these young people possess an extraordinary capacity for achievement.