College Achieves Top National Careers Award

The award follows a rigorous external assessment, which praised the College’s strategic approach to preparing students for higher education, apprenticeships and employment, and recognised careers education as a key part of the College’s commitment to student success.

While many colleges choose not to apply for the voluntary accreditation, the Quality in Careers Standard is recognised as a rigorous benchmark of excellence. Among those colleges that do put themselves forward for assessment, only around 30% achieve the highest outcome of being judged as fully meeting all of the accreditation criteria. Esher is celebrating not only achieving the award but doing so at the highest possible level.

The assessor highlighted a number of outstanding strengths, noting that the College demonstrates “a clear commitment to enabling every student to recognise, develop and achieve their potential in education, employment and within their wider community.” The report also recognised that careers education “is not viewed as a standalone function but as a key contributor to the College’s broader educational mission and student success strategy.”

Particular praise was given to the College’s collaborative approach, describing “the highly collaborative culture that exists across all levels of the organisation,” with strong internal and external partnerships enriching opportunities for learners. The report also commended the College’s personalised approach, identifying “the balance between personalised guidance and evidence-informed planning” as “a particular strength of the provision.

The assessment recognised the College’s commitment to inclusion, highlighting its “extensive and well-coordinated layers of support” that ensure all students have the opportunity to develop confidence and progress successfully to their chosen destinations. It also praised the College for fostering “a culture in which students are encouraged to take ownership of their personal development and career planning.”

Anna Young, Director of Progression Guidance and Careers at Esher Sixth Form College, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to have achieved the Quality in Careers Standard. This award recognises the dedication of colleagues across the College who work together to ensure every student is equipped with the knowledge, confidence and experiences they need to make informed decisions about their future. Careers education is central to our mission of helping every young person fulfil their potential, and this accreditation reflects our commitment to providing outstanding guidance, meaningful employer and university engagement, and personalised support for every student. We are proud of what we have achieved and look forward to building on this success in the years ahead.”