The programme is led by our Careers, Education and Futures Leader, who provides individual and small‑group guidance. She works closely with tutors and academic staff to help pupils make decisions, plan timelines and understand entry requirements for a wide range of post eighteen routes. Every Sixth Former has a scheduled meeting with her, and parents are welcome to contact her directly for support.

Pupils use the Unifrog online platform to explore their options. It gathers information on degrees, apprenticeships, work experience, international study and employment into one place. Pupils can compare opportunities, keep track of their research and complete tasks set by staff. Parents have access too, ensuring they can support their child’s thinking at home.

University preparation follows a clear structure at Sutton Valence School: research, prepare and apply.

The Sixth Form also supports pupils who wish to pursue alternatives to university. Pupils hear from visiting speakers and Old Suttonians who have taken pathways such as apprenticeships, gap years or direct employment. Guidance is available on writing applications, managing interviews and finding opportunities that match their skills and ambitions. The School’s links with employers, training providers and organisations offering structured programmes ensure that pupils have access to a broad range of information and support.

All Sixth Form pupils are encouraged to take part in work experience, shadowing or volunteering during the holidays. These placements help pupils understand workplace expectations and strengthen university, apprenticeship and employment applications. For some vocational degrees, meaningful work experience is essential.

Pupils can source placements independently or through the School’s connections. They also have access to SVS Foundation Connect, which links pupils with Old Suttonian mentors working across a wide range of industries and senior roles, offering unique opportunities for insight and experience.

Studying abroad is an increasingly attractive option, and pupils receive guidance on the opportunities, application processes and expectations involved. Destinations include the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and the Far East. Many American institutions offer scholarships for academic or sporting excellence, and hundreds of degree programmes across Europe are taught entirely in English. Tuition costs in some European universities are often lower than in the United Kingdom, making this a viable alternative for many pupils.

Our in‑house Future Focus programme prepares pupils for life after School. Sessions focus on CV writing, interviews, decision‑making, communication, budgeting, personal finance, digital awareness, first aid and wellbeing. As a partner school with InvestIn Education, pupils also have discounted access to industry experiences in sectors such as medicine, engineering, business, law and technology.

The enrichment programme helps pupils develop the practical skills and awareness needed for adult life. Sessions include cooking, budgeting, first aid, digital safety, personal finance and wellbeing. Pupils hear from external speakers on topics such as personal safety, consent, fraud awareness and road safety. These experiences complement the wider Sixth Form PSHE curriculum and support pupils as they prepare for independence beyond School.