Careers Leader
Careers Leader
A Careers Leader is the named member of staff responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating a school's careers programme. All secondary schools in England are required by statute to have a named Careers Leader with dedicated time and resource allocation. The role was formalised in the 2017 Careers Strategy and is a requirement under the statutory guidance for careers education.
Key facts
- Every secondary school in England must have a named Careers Leader — this is a statutory requirement
- The Careers Leader must have sufficient time, resources, and support from senior leadership
- The CDI and Gatsby Foundation offer training and accreditation for Careers Leaders
- Careers Leaders are distinct from Careers Advisers — advisers deliver personal guidance (Benchmark 8), while Leaders manage the whole programme
- The Careers Leader is accountable for progress against all 8 Gatsby Benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
What is a Careers Leader in a UK school?
A Careers Leader is the named staff member responsible for coordinating and managing the school's entire careers programme. They oversee delivery of the Gatsby Benchmarks, manage relationships with employers and providers, and are accountable to senior leadership for the quality of careers education. The role is a statutory requirement for all secondary schools in England.
Does a Careers Leader need to be a qualified careers adviser?
No. A Careers Leader does not need to hold a careers guidance qualification, though training is recommended. The role is primarily a strategic and management function. However, schools must ensure students have access to a qualified careers adviser (who may be internal or external) to meet Gatsby Benchmark 8 — this can be a different person from the Careers Leader.
What training is available for Careers Leaders?
The Careers & Enterprise Company, CDI, and Gatsby Foundation all offer Careers Leader training. The Government's Careers Leader Training Programme provides fully-funded training. Many universities also offer qualifications in careers education and guidance, and the CDI maintains a framework for continuing professional development.
Related terms
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