Woolston Brook School

Mark Cullen

I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new Careers Lead at Woolston Brook SEMH School. Having taken on this role since September 2024, I am excited to embark on this journey with our students, helping to guide them through the diverse and often challenging world of careers education.

In addition to my role as Careers Lead, I also teach computers and science here at Woolston Brook. This experience has given me insight into the various skills and knowledge our students need as they prepare for their future pathways. I believe that every student deserves the opportunity to explore their interests and discover the career possibilities that align with their passions and strengths.

The Careers section of this website is designed to be your go-to resource for all things related to careers education at Woolston Brook School. We aim to equip our students with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their futures.

I am particularly keen to foster an engaging and supportive environment where students feel empowered to ask questions and explore their ambitions. Whether you're a student, parent, or member of staff, my door is always open for discussions about career plans and opportunities. Together, we can help our students navigate their journey towards fulfilling and rewarding futures.

Stephanie Heaton

I joined Woolston Brook SEMH School as SENCO in September 2024. The role of a SENCO is fundamental in careers education, particularly within an SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) environment.

As SENCO, I collaborate with students, families, and staff to create individualized education plans (IEPs) that incorporate career-focused goals, ensuring that our approach is tailored to each student's unique needs. This involves facilitating clear pathways for further education, training, or employment, and providing essential emotional support to bolster confidence and aspirations.

Moreover, I liaise with career advisors and external agencies to offer appropriate guidance and work experience opportunities. By adapting the careers curriculum to accommodate varying abilities, we foster not only employability skills but also resilience and teamwork among students.

Parental involvement is also crucial; I engage with families to enhance their understanding of career pathways available to their children. The ongoing monitoring of students’ progress and subsequent support post-school is vital, helping to ensure successful transitions into adulthood. Ultimately, my role is dedicated to empowering students to navigate their career journeys, irrespective of their SEMH challenges.