Welcome to Knowledge and Skills a dynamic partnership with lots of experience in designing and delivering employability skills, careers education and work experience. Our shop includes resources in these categories:
Careers education for young adults: with modern magazine style images.
Careers education for 11-14+ learners: these are the ones with the dogs!
Work experience support: projects and guides for self-directed learning.
Level 1 maths: popular topics featuring our elephant friends!
Welcome to Knowledge and Skills a dynamic partnership with lots of experience in designing and delivering employability skills, careers education and work experience. Our shop includes resources in these categories:
Careers education for young adults: with modern magazine style images.
Careers education for 11-14+ learners: these are the ones with the dogs!
Work experience support: projects and guides for self-directed learning.
Level 1 maths: popular topics featuring our elephant friends!
Welcome to the Peer Mentoring Programme from Knowledge and Skills.
This guide will help you to take the first steps in planning and implementing a peer mentoring programme in your school or college. This programme support is given in four parts:
• An 87-page PowerPoint presentation structured into 10 training sessions covering essential information for trainee mentors
• A 58-page training and information guide for teachers/tutors to help deliver the training
• A set of optional forms and templates to record key information during the mentoring process such as draft agreements and review sheets
• A 30-page Peer Mentor’s reflective journal or diary for trainee mentors to record their impressions, strengths and areas of development.
This pack is delivered in simple format (Word and PowerPoint) to allow you to customise or adapt it to your own situation. It is intended as a practical ‘first steps’ guide to setting up a peer mentoring programme in a school or college if you intend to do so. Students who go on to be peer mentors will be helping others, developing valuable skills and generating evidence to add to a CV or personal statement. This pack does not cover the research background or justification for peer mentoring, it is assumed that if have decided to embark on a peer mentoring programme you may be looking for information on what steps to take, and how to avoid pitfalls. You do not need any previous experience of organising mentoring schemes in order to use this guide. The target group for this programme and training is students aged 15+ who will be acting as peer mentors for students of their own age or one or two years younger. It is not intended for primary schools, the language and exercises in the training sessions are aimed at older students, although the general principles apply. The guide and training will also provide evidence to support many qualifications at Level 1 in this area.
“Managing me” is a self-contained classroom topic that introduces the idea of self-management as a skill. Students will consider their own self-management skills and how these could impact on their future career. They will explore not only how to manage their time better but to prioritise what is most important when time is limited.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
“Artificial Intelligence” is a classroom topic about how skills for work are changing in a world of rapidly expanding technology. We all use multiple devices to manage our social lives and entertain ourselves, but our homes and workplaces are also going to see rapid change over the next few years. In this topic students will debate what intelligence and artificial intelligence mean to them, what skills may or may not be replaced by A.I. devices and how this could impact on the future of work.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
“Fantastic form filling” is a classroom topic that helps students to understand how to complete application forms and online applications properly. This is essential to any job search. This topic covers some good and not so good practices in completing application forms and online applications to help students maximise their chances of future job success.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
“Be safe” is a self-contained classroom topic that helps students to understand some basic principles about how to keep themselves and others safe in a school or working environment. It includes an overview of recognising hazards and risks and why it is important to manage these in the workplace. An understanding of health and safety is an essential part of learning about the world of work but it can also be applied to their everyday lives.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 3 and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes engaging and high quality images to add visual appeal.
“My big ambition” is a self-contained classroom topic with activities that are designed to help students to raise their aspirations and clarify their hopes and dreams which can become goals. Exploring this topic will also help students to realise that they have the resources they need to be happy and successful if they have self-belief and determination. The activities in this topic draw on some basic principles of neuro-linguistic programming such as visualising success and feeling positive about what you have achieved already.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
This lesson introduces the concept of employability skills and helps learners to consider their own skills development. It is one of 50 interactive topics in the My Career Development programme for career and work-related learning from Knowledge andSkills* The entire programme is mapped to the (ACEG) 2012 framework for career and work related learning at KS4 and complies with Ofsted recommendations for good lesson planning. Each topic includes instructions, a whiteboard-friendly slide show to structure your lesson and worksheets. Learning goals and reflective questions are included at two levels (increasing in complexity from green to amber) to allow for differentiation.
*www.knowledgeandskills.co.uk
“Magnificent mock interviews” is a lesson and preparation pack for students who need to take part in simulated interviews. Getting feedback on a mock interview can help students to know what to expect in a real interview situation. The interview can be arranged for every student at a time to suit them; however holding a group introduction and discussion is an effective way of helping students to prepare. This topic will need to be completed over more than one session in order to carry out preparation, interviews and feedback sessions. Briefing notes and feedback sheets have been included for students and interviewer(s), and a preparation checklist for the organiser.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
“Pay your way” is a classroom topic that introduces students to basic information about pay and payslips, tax and work related benefits. This will help students who have never worked to understand what information they will be given about pay when they go to work and how to interpret what contributions and deductions will appear and why.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
“My decisions and choices” is a self-contained classroom topic for students approaching the key transition stage at 16. It helps them to explore how to make a well informed and realistic decision at this critical stage. Students will discuss how they make decisions, and the pitfalls of making a choice without all the information they need. They will try using a decision matrix, and then try out an exercise in choice involving the main progression opportunities available to them: sixth form college, full time FE college, apprenticeship or a job with training.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
Four individual A4 workbooks for learners to complete on their own, or with the support of a teacher or tutor. Each topic also comes with a teacher/tutor PowerPoint to introduce the topic and generate discussion. Each workbook is 18-22 pages of design-rich content with engaging activities and opportunities for thought provoking reflection. Target age 15+. The whole set makes up a comprehensive programme to help learners who will be taking exams or formal assessment and want to maximise their chances. It will be particularly valuable to students taking linear A Levels. The purpose of this programme is to help learners to develop embed effective study and revision habits at the start of the academic year and build these into a routine – avoiding the last-minute panic and stress. An overview of each topic is:
• “Make your dreams happen” helps students to focus on how to visualise their goals and get their mindset right to achieve their goals. This might not be obvious to many students as a ‘study skill’ but their state of mind and sense of purpose are crucial to how they approach their studies, revision and exams – includes tips and techniques to help stay positive!
• “Use your time well” asks students to consider their actual level of commitment to their studies, how they are using their time and where they are losing it along the way. This workbook helps students to analyse and improve their time management with a focus on how to maximise the value of their independent study time. They will consider the main ‘blockers’ that are impacting on their time and how to deal with them.
• “Plan your revision” asks students “How do you study and revise for exams?” Many students are unaware of what study and revision skills they have and which they need to work on to deal with exams in a range of subjects. Getting a better understanding will help them to be more effective and ultimately to improve their chances of exam success. Includes a range of activities, tips and techniques for summarising and revision.
• “Feel confident with exams” introduces students to the idea of self-confidence and self-worth in relation to their exam success. This innovative resource will help students to see their ability to study and pass exams as part of their self-belief and confidence for life. They will consider what makes them give up and how a lack of confidence could undermine their chances. This resource also includes useful strategies for exam preparation and dealing with stress and panic.
Help your learners to get ahead of the exam season and maximise their chances.
“Applying for jobs” is a self-contained classroom topic that introduces students to how to read and interpret job adverts by picking out the key messages and what they say "between the lines". Students will explore how they can gain some insight to the culture and environment in the organisation from how they advertise for new employees. Students will also consider how they could tailor their response to meet the expectations in two different job adverts.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
“Health and safety at work” is a self-contained classroom topic that introduces students to the basic duties of employers and employees under health and safety law, and the essential elements of a good health and safety induction. Students will discuss why health and safety is important at work, what they believe should be included in an induction programme and how/when to use personal protective equipment (PPE). They will also learn how to recognise the main categories of safety sign and when/where these are used.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
“Do you see what I see?” is a self-contained classroom topic that introduces the idea of body language and non-verbal expression as an essential part of our communication, whether we realise it or not. The activities in this topic will help students to consider what signals they give and receive to and from other people and how this impacts on their level of communication and understanding of others. Internet access is required for one small optional activity.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
Attractively produced PowerPoint presentations to introduce learners to a range of strategies and tools for effective exam preparation. These may be used as stand-alone presentations, or with accompanying workbooks (available separately). They will provide a good basis for assemblies introducing exam preparation and study skills. If you teach an exam year, or learners embarking on linear A Levels this is of particular interest to you. It can also benefit students in a wide range of settings who need to work towards a specific goal. The resource includes four PowerPoints which can be adapted for your own situation:
‘Make Your Dreams Happen’ includes how to develop realistic goals, how to develop a positive mindset and the value of personal resilience and learning from experience.
‘Use Your Time Well’ encourages learners to identify where their time goes, recognise their own blockers to effective study and how to deal with them. Also included is the power of good sleep habits to maximise learning potential.
‘Plan Your Revision’ gives learners a wide range of strategies to use from the start of an academic year to embed good study and revision habits and make these as part of a routine. This will help them to avoid last minute panic and trying to capture a year’s learning or more at the last minute.
‘Feel Confident With Exams’ helps learners to recognise situations where they are likely to feel stress and plan to deal with these – focusing on exam preparation.
All presentations are attractively produced with strong images and engaging quotes for impact.
“What kind of person am I?” is a self-contained classroom topic for students from KS3 that introduces them to exploring personal values and how these can impact on life and career choices. It supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 3 and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Students will discuss what personal values are and how these could affect choices and behaviour. They will also gain confidence and self-esteem by identifying some of their own positive values .
Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a set of instructions, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities making up an extended lesson plan. The plan includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes engaging and high quality images to add interest.
“Interview tips for the top” is a self-contained classroom topic about how to present yourself well in an interview. Students will explore how their appearance, speech and body language could appear to an interview panel, and why it is important to be aware that personal presentation is a skill they can learn and improve on. They will also reflect on why it is useful to know something about the culture or conventions of the organisation interviewing them in order to make sure they present themselves well.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
“Together Everyone Achieves More” is a whole lesson plan about developing teamwork and team skills. Students will discuss why teamwork is highly valued by employers and what makes a good or bad team. Activities focus on identifying the characteristics of a well-functioning team and learning to respect and value the different roles that everyone can play in a team. A good team draws on a range of skills and this topic will help to reinforce listening to and accepting different points of view.
This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.
This guide is for school staff who have a responsiblity for organising Key Stage 4 work experience. It includes an overview of key issues and a suggested annual cycle for administrative processes. It will be particularly useful for staff who are new to this role. Whilst many details are a matter of local agreement, this guide constitutes a sound basis of best practice on which to build your own school manual for managing work experience.
This lesson looks at personal values and goals. Learners are asked to explore how their values relating to self and work will change over time, and how this impacts on traditional roles. There is an updated version of this resource on our My Career Development programme: 50 interactive topics for PSHE and careers education. Each topic includes whiteboard-friendly slide shows, worksheets and instructions. Complies with Ofsted recommendations for good lesson planning! More information and another free topic from www.knowledgeandskills.co.uk or hello@knowledgeandskills.co.uk
