Celebrating Key Role in New Report: Good Career Guidance: The Next 10 Years

Weston College is proud of its contribution to the newly published report, Good Career Guidance: The Next 10 Years, from the Gatsby Foundation. The report updates the globally recognised Gatsby Benchmarks for career guidance, offering a refreshed framework to meet the evolving demands of education and employment over the next decade.

The report, which has been shaped by nearly two years of research and sector-wide collaboration, includes Weston College as a case study. This recognition underscores the college’s commitment to integrating local labour market intelligence (LMI) into education and career guidance, ensuring learners are empowered with the tools and insights they need to succeed.

Ben Knocks, Vice Principal of Student Experience and Support at Weston College has played an advisory role in the development of the updated benchmarks. Reflecting on his involvement, Ben said:

"It has been an incredible privilege to represent Weston College and contribute to the development of such an important piece of work. The updated Gatsby Benchmarks reflect a shared commitment across the sector to ensuring young people receive world-class career guidance that equips them for the future. At Weston College, we have seen firsthand how embedding local labour market intelligence into every stage of a learner’s journey transforms aspirations and outcomes. This report highlights the power of collaboration in delivering meaningful change for young people."

A Case Study in Best Practice

The Gatsby report features Weston College as an exemplary institution, spotlighting its innovative approach to integrating labour market insights into both curriculum design and career guidance. Highlights include:

• Building strong employer relationships: Senior staff collaborate with local businesses and the combined authority to stay ahead of labour market trends.
• Informed curriculum and events: Labour market data (LMI) informs not just teaching, but also careers conventions and bespoke events for young people and their families.
• Seamless applicant journeys: LMI resources are provided to prospective students before enrolment, helping them make informed decisions about their futures.
• Empowering students through technology: Learners have access to an LMI platform throughout their studies, allowing them to explore sectors, job roles, and trends.

Gatsby Benchmarks - A Decade of Impact

Since their introduction, the Gatsby Benchmarks have become the gold standard for career guidance in education. The updated framework reflects changes in the world of work and education, incorporating new research and innovations from schools, colleges, and employers.

The report is further endorsed by a foreword from The Rt Hon Baroness Smith of Malvern, Minister for Skills, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the benchmarks:

"The Gatsby Benchmarks set a vital standard for career guidance, empowering young people to explore their potential and gain the skills they need. We are committed to strengthening this foundation and breaking down the barriers to opportunity."

Looking Ahead

As Weston College continues its mission to inspire and empower learners, we remain committed to setting an example of excellence in career guidance. The release of Good Career Guidance: The Next 10 Years marks a pivotal moment for the sector, ensuring that young people across the country are equipped with the tools to achieve their ambitions.

About the Gatsby Foundation

The Gatsby Foundation is a leading charitable organisation dedicated to driving innovation and improvement across education, science, and careers. Through its research and initiatives, Gatsby has transformed the landscape of career guidance in the UK and beyond. Find out more: www.gatsbybenchmarks.org.uk