Avenor College received high recognition for its exemplary programme in career guidance and counselling during the assessment for the Career Mark International Award. This Award – an independent and objective evaluation of our CEAIG (Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance) programme – outlined the key strengths that equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in the future job market. Not only does this recognition inspire confidence in our school’s ability to prepare students for tomorrow’s challenges, but it also provides an opportunity to continuously enhance the career guidance program. By staying ahead of the game and adapting to the ever-changing job landscape, Avenor aims to ensure that its students are always ready to seize the opportunities of the future.
“We decided ourselves to apply for this award for three reasons. First, we wanted our community and prospective parents to stay assured that our school provides a state-of-art programme, in line with what the very best schools in the world offer. Secondly, we looked at the success that our students have after they leave Avenor and we wanted external specialists to confirm this and also to suggest next steps in developing the programme. And last, but not least we know that universities look for the school’s profile when accepting students. This award is a flag for universities that our graduates are well prepared, that they make informed decisions about their future and that they will cope with the demands of university life.” says Dr. Daniela Vasile – Director of Learning and Acting Head of Secondary.
Starting from observations such as: “while your students are privileged, they have great humility and they want to give back to the community” that make us very proud, the overall evaluation of the CEAIG team and programme recognises the quality and breadth of Avenor careers provision and the impact that it has on our students.
During the assessment, students demonstrated a high level of maturity, articulation, and critical thinking. They engaged enthusiastically in discussions about their career aspirations, showing a deep understanding of their strengths, interests, and values. Many students expressed a desire to make a positive impact on the world, contribute to their community, and pursue their passions in various fields.
Avenor College’s learning ethos places a strong emphasis on preparing students for their future careers and fostering independent learning. One of the key elements of this ethos is the Avenor Learner Profile (ALP), which focuses on developing essential skills and qualities in students that are necessary for success in the workplace.
The school provides diverse opportunities for personal development, including talks with industry experts, university fairs, competitions, workshops, volunteering, community projects, and participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Programme and Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC) sessions. The strong support from subject teachers was also noted, with examples of students receiving guidance and mentorship in exploring career options.
Students at Avenor College showed a keen interest in various industries, including medicine, engineering, computer science, business and management, finance, hospitality, politics and fashion design or film making career pathways. The school encourages students to pursue their interests and passions and prepares them for top universities.
The Grade 9 students demonstrated early career planning skills, with a good understanding of their personal skills and strengths. By Grade 10, most students were able to align themselves with specific sectors based on their skills and interests.
Avenor College’s commitment to holistic education and career development is further exemplified by the recognition of important work-related skills, such as communication, teamwork, leadership, initiative, creativity, and realism. The school encourages students to develop these skills through academic studies, volunteering, and extracurricular activities, preparing them for the demands of the professional world.
Grade 11 and 12 students are well-informed about post-18 pathways, with the traditional university route being the most popular choice.
We are very happy and proud that Avenor College’s performance in meeting the standards of Career Mark International Award was evaluated as commendable, the report highlighting the school’s emphasis on self-development, career exploration, and personal growth through a wide range of opportunities. And our students’ maturity, articulation, and ambition were considered the perfect proofs of evidence.
The official report that can be read in full HERE.
