Careers & Life Skills

The School pays attention to students’ personal and social development by teaching age-appropriate life skills from Kindergarten (Foundation Stage) right through to Years 12 and 13, where the emphasis moves to Higher Education options and Careers. The learning in Kindergarten (Foundation Stage) and Primary School is called ‘Personal and Social Development’ and ‘Citizenship’, and is described in the 'PSHE’ section.

In the Secondary School, a wide range of opportunities are available to Key Stage 3 and 4 (Year 7 to Year 13) students, depending on age group, to help develop their leadership skills, communication and teamwork, fitness, endurance and sense of community.

These include Prefect Responsibilities, Class Monitors, participation in the European Youth Parliament (EYP) and Model United Nations (MEDI.M.U.N.), Educational Overseas Trips, EU projects such as Comenius/Life Long Programmes, Public Speaking, Literary Competitions, achievement of the International Award (the name for the Duke of Edinburgh Award outside the UK), Community Service and Voluntary Work Placements.

All of these activities help to develop excellent life skills, and evidence of taking part in them also enhances students’ university applications, since higher education establishments tend to look for a balance of good academic results, extracurricular activities, and a well-rounded personality. The opportunities offered are all coordinated by various members of staff who have a special responsibility for each area.

In Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13), Careers & Life Skills also includes acquisition of decision-making and time-management skills. Invited speakers introduce the students to various professions, and students are fully supported with their higher education applications to the UK and elsewhere. After graduation from Year 13, some students may have to postpone their higher education studies, typically those who are first required to complete their compulsory military service.

The School therefore offers the same high level of support in guiding students through the university application process, whether they are transferring directly to university after Year 13, or after military service or postponement of higher education for any other reason.