Slemish College

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Careers

At Slemish College, we are proud to prepare the workforce of the future by equipping our students with the skills, confidence, and insight needed to thrive in both local and global employment markets.

Careers Education is a vital part of our curriculum, delivered fortnightly from Year 8 through to Year 14, with tailored support at key transition points including GCSE, A-Level, and post-18 pathways. Led by Mrs M O’Donovan, Head of Careers, our dedicated team ensures that every student receives high-quality, inclusive guidance.

Careers lessons are complemented by a wide range of enrichment opportunities including:

  • Hybrid Work Experience in Year 12 and Year 13, combining block placements, virtual experiences, and job shadowing tailored to students’ career goals.
  • Mock Interviews, employer talks, and industry visits through our growing Slemish Careers Network.
  • University and College Engagement, including visits and presentations from Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University, CAFRE, and Northern Regional College (NRC). We maintain excellent relationships with these institutions to ensure students receive up-to-date guidance and opportunities.
  • Apprenticeship Pathways, supported by talks from WorkPlus and other providers, helping students explore Higher Level Apprenticeships and vocational routes.
  • Digital Careers Tools such as Unifrog, UCAS Hub, and Labour Market Information platforms.
  • Enterprise and Employability Workshops delivered by partners including Young Enterprise, Uform Careers, Nerve Centre, and a range of local employers.
  • Specialist Programmes including SistersIN, Rotary Leadership, and Saphara, which develop leadership and workplace skills.
  • Personalised, bespoke support for students and parents at key transitional stages in Year 10 (GCSE choices), Year 12 (Post-16 planning), and Year 14 (Post-18 pathways), including individual interviews, planning days, and tailored guidance.

We work closely with the Careers Service Advisor, parents, and external agencies to provide personalised guidance, ensuring students are informed and confident in their decisions. Our Careers provision is inclusive, with tailored support for SEN students and a strong focus on developing employability skills across the curriculum.

Whether students are considering university, apprenticeships, employment, or vocational training, our Careers Department is committed to helping them explore all options and plan for a successful future.

Careers Department Staff:

  • Mrs M O'Donovan (Head of Careers)
  • Mr J Cowden
  • Mrs D Mitchell
  • Mr M Weir
  • Mrs J Armstrong
  • Ms C Mulligan
  • Mrs A Donnelly
  • Miss C Anderson
  • Mrs L Smith
  • Mrs M Cooke