The careers education and guidance entitlement at New Mills School consists of six elements which, together, provide a coherent and progressive programme for all students at each stage of their career:

• Careers education programme
• Work Related Learning
• Work Experience
• Careers information
• Guidance
• Action planning and recording of achievement

Key Stage 3 students receive 3 hours per year of discrete careers lessons as part of their active tutorial programme. These lessons are delivered jointly by the Connexions Adviser, Careers Co-ordinator and the tutor in the Learning Resources Centre which has the Connexions Library.

In Key Stage 4 students receive a minimum of 10 days of work experience, a day’s worth of work experience preparation and debrief, a Year 11 Study Day and various Enterprise activities.

At Key Stage 5, specific lessons are prepared and delivered to cater for post 18 and post 17 choices respectively. The Upper Sixth undergo an intensive advice and guidance programme led by the Head of Sixth assisted by the Connexions Personal Adviser, Sixth Form Tutors and subject staff. The UCAS procedure is explained in great detail, the students’ applications are carefully monitored, and reference writing takes place using a large variety of materials from many sources. Students are encouraged to write CVs and receive guidance on interview techniques. School based work experience is also available to all Sixth Formers.

The school's Careers Co-ordinator is Mrs Alison Hesford based in the Admin Office.

The school works in partnership with Connexions Derbyshire. Our Personal Adviser, Sarah Hall, is in school on Mondays, Wednesday mornings and Thursdays.

Each young person can expect the following from their Connexions PA:
• Assessment of need to address any barriers to progression.
• Help to review their strengths and weaknesses, recognise their potential and set their goals.
• Advice on planning to achieve their educational and learning goals
• Impartial careers advice and guidance.
• Advice and guidance on identifying suitable 14-19 pathways
• Advice and referral to specialist services, where needed, as part of Integrated Youth Support arrangements.
• Information on all 14-19 opportunities including courses, training, qualifications, apprenticeships and employment.
• Information and advice on local options, labour market trends and career progression.
• A written outcome/action plan from all individual interviews.
• Information on personal development opportunities, to broaden horizons and develop talents, including volunteering and positive activities.
• General information and signposting to health, lifestyle and financial support.

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