Preparing for the Future

We understand that preparing for adulthood is about more than just qualifications—it's about giving every young person the confidence, skills, and real-world experiences they need to move forward with purpose. Our role is to support each student in finding a meaningful next step that reflects their strengths, aspirations, and individuality. Whether it's college, further training, or supported employment, we work closely with families and partners to ensure every transition is as smooth and successful as possible.

“Leaders provide pupils with a comprehensive programme of impartial careers guidance. The different curriculum pathways cater for pupils’ needs and aspirations.”  

- Ofsted

A Pathway from Learning to Earning

Key Stage 3: Building Skills for Life and Work

In Key Stage 3, pupils take part in the Work & Life Skills programme, supported by Talentino Careers—a specialist SEND careers provider. This programme helps students begin exploring their strengths, interests, and potential career paths through three key strands:

• Personal and Social Development
• Employability and Enterprise Skills
• Career Management Skills

This early exposure to career learning helps build confidence, raise aspirations, and maximise the likelihood of pupils achieving the best possible next step, despite any barriers they may face.

Key Stage 4: Practical Learning and Real-World Experience

In Key Stage 4, pupils continue to build on their learning through:

• Introductory BTEC qualifications, which combine hands-on experience with subject theory in areas related to employment and life skills.
• Work Experience placements, both internally (within school departments) and externally (in local businesses and community organisations).

We are proud to work with several valued partners to offer meaningful work experience opportunities, including:

• DFN Project SEARCH
• The Feltham Convening Partnership
• Spark!
• Local businesses such as Heathrow Marriott Hotel

These placements give students real-life insight into the workplace and help them develop key skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

"Before work experience, I didn’t think I could do a job on my own. But after my experience, I felt proud of myself. I learned how to speak to new people and do tasks without help. Now I feel ready for college and maybe even a job one day."
— Year 11 Student

 

Careers Events with Family Involvement

We organise regular talks and information sessions with further education providers, apprenticeship representatives, and employers. Parents are invited to attend these sessions to learn more about post-16 pathways and how to support their child in preparing for adulthood.

We host an annual Careers Fair, open to all pupils and families. The event includes:

• Employer and provider stands
• Mock interviews
• Job application workshops
• Information on different career sectors

"The support our daughter received as she prepared to leave school was outstanding. The staff really listened to her—and to us—and helped her explore different options without pressure. We feel confident she’s on the right path now, and that means everything." — Parent of a Year 11 Leaver

Post-16 Pathways

When pupils leave Marjory Kinnon School at 16, there are three main pathways available:

1. Local Supported Learning College
   Pupils typically access Foundation or Level 1 vocational courses with additional support.
2. Specialist Sixth Form Provision
   Pupils may transition into a special school Sixth Form environment designed for post-16 learners with SEND.
3. Supported Internships
   These structured work-based learning programmes prepare young people for employment with tailored support.

We provide a comprehensive list of local college open days, key dates, and online information sessions through the Hounslow Connexions team, helping families make informed decisions and complete applications with confidence.

Careers Team and Contact Information

Careers education is led by:

• Mrs A. Higgins – Head of Secondary
• Mr J. Gowers – Assistant Headteacher (KS4 / Preparation for Adulthood)

If you have any questions or would like support in planning your child’s next steps, you can contact them via the School Office at:
Email: office@mks.org.uk

Provider Access Information

In line with statutory guidance, all students in Years 8 to 11 are entitled to:

• Learn about technical education and apprenticeship opportunities
• Hear from a range of education and training providers
• Understand how to make applications for the full range of post-16 academic and vocational courses

For more information, please see our Provider Access Policy Statement below.