Activity Menu
Finance and Transferable skills
These sessions are designed to build learner awareness around financial and transferable skills. By taking part in budgeting, teamwork and reflective activities, learners will have the opportunity develop their skills.
Budget Busters (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description:
An interactive session designed to help learners sharpen their budgeting skills by working collaboratively to understand personal money management within HE.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Budget Busters PowerPoint
- Budget Busters game/sheets
Time: 60 minutes
Key Skills: Decision Making, HE Awareness, Money Management
Gatsby Benchmark: 7
Progression Framework: Debate HE
Year Groups: Y11 , Y12 , Y13
Presentation Delivery Notes Options Sheet Budget Planner Sheet
Future Ready: Transferrable Skills (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description:
This session aims to build learner’s understanding of transferable skills. By the end of the session learners should have knowledge of key transferable skills, and an awareness of how they can develop these transferable skills in their own lives.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Future Ready: Transferable Skills PowerPoint
- Printed worksheets
Time: 60 minutes
Key Skills: Communication, Problem Solving, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 7
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Shaping Your Future
This workbook is designed to guide learners through all they need to know to transition into FE and HE. Learners will explore numerous areas including UCAS, student life, careers and wellbeing. Workbook sessions can be delivered in isolation or as a complete programme.
Please download the workbook below. You can find accompanied resources within each section.
Introduction to Workbook & Self-Exploration (Y11, Y12)
Description: Learners are introduced to the Shaping Your Future workbook before completing a range of activities that support with self-exploration.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Introduction to Workbook & Self-Exploration PowerPoint
- Shaping Your Future workbook (Hardcopy/Printed/interactive)
Time: 45 minutes
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Organisational Skills, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 3
Progression Framework: Dream HE
Year Groups: Y11, Y12
Introduction to Further Education (FE) (Y11)
Description: Learners will gain an understanding of FE through activities and discussions. Topics include choosing an FE course, applying to FE, and student life.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Introduction to FE Part 1 & Part 2 PowerPoints
- Shaping Your Future workbook (Hardcopy/Printed/interactive)
Time: 45 minutes x 2
Key Skills: Decision Making, Research Skills, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 7
Progression Framework: Discover Level 3
Year Groups: Y11
Introduction to Higher Education (HE) (Y11, Y12)
Description: Learners will gain an understanding of HE through activities and discussions. Topics include Routes to HE, Choosing a HEP, and accommodation.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Introduction to HE Part 1 & Part 2 PowerPoints
- Shaping Your Future workbook (Hardcopy/Printed/interactive)
Time: 45 minutes
Key Skills: Decision Making, Research Skills, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 7
Progression Framework: Discovery HE
Year Groups: Y11, Y12
Careers and Employability (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: Learners will explore a how to make decisions related to career choices and how to research their options.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Careers & Employability PowerPoint
- Shaping Your Future workbook (Hardcopy/Printed/interactive)
Time: 45 minutes
Key Skills: Decision Making, Research Skills, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 3
Progression Framework: Discovery L3
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Study Skills (Y11, Y12)
Description: Through a combination activities and discussions, learners are challenged to think about their personal approach to learning before exploring key study skills such as time management and note taking.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Study Skills PowerPoints
- Shaping Your Future workbook (Hardcopy/Printed/interactive)
Time: 45 minutes
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Organisational Skills, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 3, 7
Progression Framework: Dream – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12
Self-Care (Y11, Y12)
Description: Learners will explore a range of wellbeing topics such as stress, anxiety and mindfulness, and with opportunities to reflect on these areas embedded throughout the session.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Self-Care PowerPoints
- Shaping Your Future workbook (Hardcopy/Printed/interactive)
Time: 45 minutes
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 3
Progression Framework: Dream L2, Do HE
Year Groups: Y11, Y12
Digital Skills
These Digital Skills sessions give learners opportunity to develop their understanding, confidence and skills in relation to the online world.
Handling information (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: This interactive session highlight’s the potential risks related to online information. Once learners have developed their understanding of how to find accurate information online, they’ll put their skills to the test with a short HE research task.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session animation e.g. Whiteboard
- Session animation
- Printable or interactive worksheet
Time: 30 minutes
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Research
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 7
Progression Framework: Do HE
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Communication: Online Presence (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: Learners will be provided with valuable insight on how to present themselves online in an appropriate and professional way. After discussing the purpose of each social platform, how they should present themselves and things to avoid, learners will have a chance to create their very own LinkedIn profile.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session animation e.g. Whiteboard
- Session animation
- Printable or interactive worksheet
Time: 30 minutes
Key Skills: Communication, Employability, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 2
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Communication: Writing a professional email (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: This interactive session gives learners guidance on why and how to communicate professionally via email. Learners will be challenged with crafting their own professional email based on a work experience scenario.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session animation e.g. Whiteboard
- Session animation
- Printable or interactive worksheet
Time: 30 minutes
Key Skills: Communication, Employability, Research
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 2
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Problem Solving (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: This session and Excel based task aims to highlight the various helpful tools and resources available online for learners to access, whatever their situation or problem may be.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session animation e.g. Whiteboard
- Session animation
- Resource sheets
- Computers for learners
- Microsoft Excel
Time: 30 minutes
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Research
Gatsby Benchmark: 1
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Staying Safe and Legal (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: Learners will develop their understanding of the risks associated with using the internet before creating some practical plans on how to stay safe online.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session animation e.g. Whiteboard
- Session animation
- Printable or interactive worksheet
Time: 30 minutes
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark:1
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Transacting (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: Learners will develop their awareness of phishing emails, with the opportunity to put their detective skills to the test through the interactive task.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session animation e.g. Whiteboard
- Session animation
- Printable or interactive worksheet
Time: 30 minutes
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Decision Making
Gatsby Benchmark: 1
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Virtual Work Experience
Through the Virtual Work Experience platform, leaners will have the opportunity to explore a range of industries. They’ll gain a real understanding of different roles and sectors whilst developing their skills through interactive briefs.
You can access additional resources on the FutureGoals VWX website below (please scroll to the bottom of the page to access the employer guide and general lesson plans)
Construction (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: Learners’ knowledge, skills and focus will be tested through interactive challenges related to a fictional new housing development project. Tasks will focus on core skills related to Maths, English and Science. Learners will also develop their knowledge and understanding of industry careers.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session resources e.g. whiteboard
- Session videos
- Interactive or Printed Challenge booklet
- Computers for learners (Optional – check lesson plan/delivery notes)
- Relevant employers (Optional – check lesson plan/delivery notes)
Time: Full day, half day or 5 x 60 minute sessions
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Employability
Gatsby Benchmark: 2, 4, 5, 6 (if employers involved)
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Manufacturing & Engineering (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: Learners’ knowledge, skills and focus will be tested through interactive challenges based around the development and launch of ‘Project Z’ – a new product designed for the Health and Social sector. Learners will also develop their knowledge and understanding of industry careers.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session resources e.g. whiteboard
- Session videos
- Interactive or Printed Challenge booklet
- Computers for learners (Optional – check lesson plan/delivery notes)
- Relevant employers (Optional – check lesson plan/delivery notes)
Time: Full day, half day or 5 x 60 minute sessions
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Employability
Gatsby Benchmark: 2, 4, 5, 6 (if employers involved)
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Creative & Digital (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: Learners’ knowledge, skills and focus will be tested through a fictional project in which they’ll have to develop, advertise and launch a new app called ‘Sustainable Swap’ – created to allow people to swap their unwanted clothes, rather than purchasing new items and, therefore, help to protect the environment. Learners will also develop their knowledge and understanding of industry careers.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session resources e.g. whiteboard
- Session videos
- Interactive or Printed Challenge booklet
- Computers for learners (Optional – check lesson plan/delivery notes)
- Relevant employers (Optional – check lesson plan/delivery notes)
Time: Full day, half day or 5 x 60 minute sessions
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Employability
Gatsby Benchmark: 2, 4, 5, 6 (if employers involved)
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
HealthTech (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: Learners’ knowledge, skills and focus will be tested through a fictional project based around the HealthTech company MT Health Solutions – a company which manufactures and trials new pharmaceutical products such as medicines and vaccines. Learners will also develop their knowledge and understanding of industry careers.
Resources:
- Computer (with internet access)
- Screen to display session resources e.g. whiteboard
- Session videos
- Interactive or Printed Challenge booklet
- Computers for learners (Optional – check lesson plan/delivery notes)
- Relevant employers (Optional – check lesson plan/delivery notes)
Time: Full day, half day or 5 x 60 minute sessions
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Employability
Gatsby Benchmark: 2, 4, 5, 6 (if employers involved)
Progression Framework: Debate – All levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Raising HE Awareness
These HE focused sessions provide learners with insight in to a range of HE related areas.
Higher Education: An introduction (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: This session introduces learners to what HE is, types of HE including apprenticeships, and the various pathways associated with HE, whilst also providing a soft focus on readiness skills.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Higher Education: An Introduction PowerPoint
- Jargon Buster cards
Time: 30-45 minutes
Key Skills: HE Awareness, Decision Making
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 7
Progression Framework: Discover HE
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Student Life (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: This session gives learners insight into all aspects of life as a HE Student, with real student experiences incorporated into the session.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Student Life PowerPoint
Time: 30-45 minutes
Key Skills: HE Awareness, Communication, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 7
Progression Framework: HE Debate
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Student Finance (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: This session provides learners with insight into Student Finance, including how to apply, how it works and money management tips.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- Student Finance PowerPoint
- Printed budget sheets – 1 per person (full version only)
Time: 30-45 minutes
Key Skills: HE Awareness, Money Management, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 7
Progression Framework: HE Discover
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
Study Skills (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: An interactive session designed to help learners develop their study skills. By reflecting on their own study style and learning practical techniques, learners should feel empowered to take charge of their own study.
Resources:
- Study Skills PowerPoint
- Paper and pens
- Coloured pens, flashcards etc
Time: 60 Minutes
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Organisational Skills, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 3
Progression Framework: Dream – all levels
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
‘How to’ - Open Days (Y12, Y13)
Description: This session helps learners to understand what a HE Open Day is and how to make the most of them. Learners will have the chance to put together an open day action plan.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- ‘How to’ Open Days PowerPoint
- Print out of slide 8 – 1 per student (optional)
Time: 15-45 minutes
Key Skills: HE Awareness, Organisational Skills, Decision Making
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 7
Progression Framework: HE Discover
Year Groups: Y12, Y13
‘How to’ - Support & Resources (Y11, Y12, Y13)
Description: This interactive session helps students understand what support may be available to them at HEP’s, and how they can access this support. Learners are then tasked with scenario-based challenges, where they get the chance to develop some support action plans.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- ‘How to’ Resources and Support PowerPoint
- Paper and pens for the activities (optional)
Time: 15-60 minutes
Key Skills: Decision Making, HE Awareness, Research Skills
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 3, 7
Progression Framework: HE Do
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
‘How to’ - Clearing (Y12, Y13)
Description: This session introduces learners to the process of Clearing. They’ll gain valuable insight into what clearing is, the importance of preparing for clearing and support available during clearing.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- ‘How to’ Clearing PowerPoint
- Paper and pens (for the activities)
Time: 15-45 minutes
Key Skills: Decision Making, HE Awareness, Research Skills
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 7
Progression Framework: HE Do
Year Groups: Y12, Y13
‘How to’ - Personal Statements (Y12, Y13)
Description: This interactive presentation explores all things personal statement related, from UCAS to top writing tips. An attached personal statement clinic is optional, where learners will have support drafting or adapting their own personal statement.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- ‘How to’ write a Personal Statement
- Access to the internet for learners: Computer/laptop/phones
Time: 15-60 minutes
Key Skills: Critical Thinking, Research Skills, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 3, 7, 8
Progression Framework: HE Do
Year Groups: Y12, Y13
‘How to’ - CV’s (Y11, Y12 , Y13)
Description: This interactive presentation explores all things CV related, from presentation to top writing tips. An attached CV clinic is optional, where learners will have support drafting or adapting their CV’s.
Resources:
- Computer
- Screen to display the PowerPoint e.g. Whiteboard
- ‘How to’ CV’s PowerPoint
- Paper and pens (for the activities)
- Printed CV Planning Word document – 1 per student (if doing the full presentation)
- Printed ‘Bad’ CV Example Word document – 1 per student (if doing the full presentation)
- Space to hold optional CV Clinic (discuss with OO at the time of requesting activity)
Time: 15-60 minutes
Key Skills: Employability, Decision Making, Self-Awareness
Gatsby Benchmark: 1, 3, 7, 8
Progression Framework: HE Dream
Year Groups: Y11, Y12, Y13
