By understanding the needs of the school and individual students, adviser Lisa and engagement specialist Karen create meaningful employer experiences.
Kilgarth School in Birkenhead is a small cohort, community school for boys aged 11-16 with additional social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. All pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Judged ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2024, the school creates personalised education programmes to ensure each pupil achieves the best possible outcomes from their starting point.
Career Connect adviser Lisa Kirkham has provided careers support to Kilgarth pupils for more than 10 years. She helps pupils prepare for their transition to life after school, exploring what they want to do, identifying their interests and needs and finding colleges or training providers offering the skills they need for their chosen career.
Lisa said:
“Because every pupil has an EHCP, a significant part of my role is liaison between everyone involved. I provide recommendations based on the pupil’s needs to the school and their chosen destination. This may include inviting the college or provider to the school to meet the pupils and understand their support requirements.
Lisa Kirkham,
Career Connect Adviser
Sue Pelter runs Kilgarth school’s Flexible Learning Centre, where Year 11 pupils prepare for life after school.
Sue said:
“Finding post-16 opportunities for our pupils can be a challenge, so Career Connect’s support is vital. Lisa knows this place inside out, with an amazing knowledge of what’s out there. She is great at telling pupils what they need to know and what matches their needs. Lisa takes the time to find out what our pupils are good at, has a good sense of their requirements and understands the need to be flexible, tactful and understanding.”
Sue Pelter,
Kilgarth School Flexible Learning Centre
Cath Sissons from Kilgarth School co-ordinates the work experience placements with Career Connect’s Employer Engagement Assistant Karen Bancroft.
Cath said:
“Karen is always just a phone call away. Finding employers willing to support students with additional needs can be a challenge, but Karen makes sure every Year 10 pupil wanting work experience has the opportunity to do so in a supportive environment. I know, if I have any problems about a placement, I can call Karen and she’ll say: “leave it with me”, and sort everything out.”
Cath Sissons,
Work Experience Coordinator, Kilgarth School
Headteacher Jane Westlake said:
“Career Connect works the same way that we do. We both want to provide our pupils with access to high-quality career advice and guidance and ensure the best possible outcomes for our pupils. We know we can always contact them for advice, and they’ll give us the best support they can.”
Jane Westlake
Head Teacher, Kilgarth School
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