At UTC Plymouth, we prepare students for meaningful careers or higher education pathways after their time with us. We aim for every student to leave school with the skills, confidence and ambition to thrive in the modern world.  

We know that every lesson, every project and every opportunity contributes to future success. Whether students choose university, apprenticeships or direct employment, our goal is to ensure they are ready to take the next step with clarity and confidence. 

Strong careers guidance helps students understand the link between their learning and the world of work. Research across UK schools shows that students with access to high‑quality careers education are more motivated, achieve better outcomes and make informed choices about their futures. 

Further education and training are equally important. Many of our students progress to higher education, specialist apprenticeships or advanced technical training. By embedding careers into our curriculum, we retain our UTCness, ensure that every student sees the relevance of their studies and understands the opportunities available to them. 

We provide: 

• Employer engagement: Partnerships with local and national businesses give students real‑world experience. 

• Work experience opportunities: Placements help students develop employability skills and explore career interests. 

• Careers education across all year groups: From Year 7 onwards, students receive guidance tailored to their stage. 

• Information on labour market trends: We share up‑to‑date insights into growing industries and local opportunities. 

• Support for applications: Guidance on CVs, personal statements, university applications, and apprenticeship routes. 

• Events and workshops: Careers fairs, employer talks, and skills workshops to inspire and inform. 

Our careers programme is mapped against the Gatsby Benchmarks and the CDI Framework, ensuring that students receive guidance that meets national standards. This means: 

• Encounters with employers and employees 

• Experiences of workplaces 

• Encounters with further and higher education 

• Personal guidance from qualified advisors 

Careers Leader contact details: Parents/carers and students can reach out for personalised support. Speak to Hayley, Careers Lead, today: hayley.hall@utcplymouth.org 

At UTC Plymouth, we want every student to leave with a clear sense of direction and the skills to succeed. Whether you’re aiming for university, an apprenticeship, or straight into employment, planning your career pathway early helps you make informed choices and stay motivated in your studies.

• Devon County Council Careers Advice
  • Information on jobs, training, apprenticeships, and skills development across Devon. A useful starting point for young adults exploring work or education pathways.
  • Go to: www.devon.gov.uk/economy-enterprise-skills/skills/employment-hubs/
• Devon, Plymouth & Torbay Careers Hub
  • Connects schools and colleges with employers to provide real‑world careers insight. Offers labour market information and helps students understand what skills local industries need.
  • www.dptcareershub.co.uk/
• Skills Launchpad Plymouth
  • A one‑stop careers hub offering support with training, apprenticeships, jobs, and skills development. Designed to help young people move confidently into work or further study.
  • Go to: www.skillslaunchpadplym.co.uk/
• National Careers Service
  • A national platform with job profiles, skills assessments, CV tools, and career planning advice. Ideal for exploring future careers and understanding what qualifications are needed.
  • Go to: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/