Careers
At Richmond Sixth Form College, we believe in developing confident, capable young people with the knowledge and skills to succeed in life, not just in exams. While academic achievement is highly valued, our aim is to nurture curiosity, creativity, and independence, helping students grow into well-rounded individuals ready for the world beyond school.
Guided by our core values of Creativity, Respect, Excellence, Determination, Independence, and Teamwork, our curriculum and careers programme work hand in hand to prepare students for their future. We provide expert careers education and guidance that encourages self-awareness, informed research, and ambitious yet realistic decision-making—ensuring every student is ready to take their next step with confidence.
Sixth Form Guidance
In the Sixth Form, you’ll make important decisions that shape your future—and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re planning for university, an apprenticeship, or employment, our dedicated team provides expert advice and personalised guidance to help you make confident, informed choices.
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Our support includes:
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Specialist staff to guide your progression into higher education and careers.
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Access to leading careers platforms such as Fast Tomato and Unifrog.
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One-to-one guidance from professional Careers Advisers.
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Confidential, impartial advice that promotes equal opportunities for all.
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Work skills support, including CV and letter writing led by an industry expert.
Sixth Form tutors also help students prepare strong UCAS personal statements, explore degree and advanced apprenticeship options, gain extended work experience, and develop interview techniques. At Richmond Sixth Form College, personalised support ensures every student is ready to take the next step with confidence.
Careers and Higher Education Support
Our Sixth Form offers a vibrant Careers Education and Guidance programme, helping students explore every pathway. Support includes:
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Strong links with universities such as Durham, York, Leeds, Newcastle, Leeds Beckett, Newcastle, and Teesside
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Visiting speakers from universities and Speakers for Schools
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Mock interviews and UCAS and Apprenticeship Higher Education conventions
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Guidance for competitive courses, including Medicine, Veterinary Science, Nursing, Oxbridge, and Russell Group universities
We support students at every step of the way with the UCAS process, this includes research into university options and choices, support for using the UCAS system, help with competitive personal statements and ongoing support throughout the interview and offer process. We also support with the UCAS Clearing process if needed on results day and beyond to help students secure higher education places.
Students use the Unifrog system which helps students to choose the best Universities and Apprenticeships for them, and it allows teachers to track their progress.
Degree and Advanced Apprenticeships
We work collaboratively with local, regional and national employers including:
- Cummins Inc
- Glaxo Smith Kline
- Network Rail
- North Yorkshire County Council
- ProPharma Group Ltd
- Purple Creative Studio
- Razor Blue
- Richmond District Council
- The City Secret
These networks mean that we are well connected to support students who are considering employment and apprenticeship routes. We are also able to support students to secure work experience to help them achieve their career goals. We also work closely with employers through our employability programme. Students have a range of guest speakers, for example Nestle, Morrisons, Young Enterprise and Endeavour Law.
Work Experience
All students have the opportunity to take part in a professional placement tailored to their needs and future plans. Year 10 and Year 12 students can complete block placements, while Year 12 students may also undertake part-time placements over several weeks. Placements are designed to align with students’ university or career aspirations.
We work closely with the SEND Team and the Alternative Provision to ensure every student receives appropriate support and opportunities.
If you would like more information about any aspect of careers support at Richmond Sixth Form College please contact Miss Pemberton: jpemberton@richmond-alt.uk or Miss Hamer: ruthamer@richmond-alt.uk
