We are launching a new employability and labour market newsletter titled Beyond the Common Room. Although it is produced with Sixth Form students in mind, we are sharing it with all families across the school.

The world of work is changing rapidly, and young people of all ages benefit from understanding the skills, behaviours, and opportunities that will shape their future pathways. This newsletter will provide clear, accessible information on apprenticeships, work experience, CV and interview skills, labour market trends, and the realities of Student Finance. Younger students and their families may find it helpful in starting early conversations about future choices, confidence building, and developing employability skills throughout secondary school.

We also value collaboration with our wider school community, particularly our parents and carers. If you have any spare time and would be willing to share your university experience, your career pathway, or if you are able to offer work experience placements or support mock interviews, we would be delighted to hear from you. We are especially keen to build relationships with businesses that offer apprenticeships or that recruit using assessment centre style processes. This kind of support is invaluable to our students.

If you are able to help in any way, please contact ashea@chelmer.essex.sch.uk.

We hope you find the newsletter useful and informative.

Beyond the Common Room April 2026