Inspiring Futures at Streatham & Clapham High School

02/02/2026

The Futures & Aspirations programme at Streatham & Clapham High School plays a central role in preparing students for life beyond the classroom and the rapidly evolving world of work. Designed to build confidence, independence, and clarity about post‑18 pathways, the programme offers a rich blend of personalised guidance, meaningful work experience, and exposure to industry experts.

Our programme starts in Year 7, with pupils taking part in an engaging initiative designed to build self‑awareness and confidence. Through psychometric and skills-based activities, followed by the creation of personalised vision boards, they explore their strengths, values and emerging ambitions. This inspiring process helps them translate their goals into visual motivation, nurturing a proactive mindset for the future. Read more about the Year 7 Futures Project here.

From the outset, students benefit from tailored one‑to‑one support and access to the powerful Unifrog platform, enabling them to research universities, courses, and careers with confidence. They also receive guidance on essential skills such as interview preparation, cover letters, and assessment centre practice—all of which help them navigate an increasingly competitive landscape.

Work experience is a cornerstone of the programme. From Year 8, pupils take part in Take your Daughter to Work Day, offering an early insight into the world of work. As they progress through the school, we encourage students to complete both virtual and in‑person placements, with Sixth Form students encouraged to take part in industry‑specific experience that aligns with their chosen degree subjects. This hands‑on exposure not only strengthens applications but also builds self‑belief and a deeper understanding of potential career pathways.

A standout feature of the programme is the fortnightly Lecture Series, which connects students with professionals from a wide range of fields. These talks spark curiosity, broaden horizons and inspire students to imagine their own futures. Recent speakers have included barrister Jessikah Inaba; author and broadcaster Jeffrey Boakye; Partner at KPMG Liz Claydon; Booking Director at Vogue Rosie Vogel and Consultant in Emergency Medicine at City St George’s Dr Sarah Krishnanandan. In addition to the Lecture Series, the school recently welcomed the Step IN Step UP team from Morgan Stanley, who led CV workshops for Year 12 students — providing practical, industry‑relevant advice for those preparing to enter competitive job markets.

Each summer, Higher Education Week offers an intensive deep dive into post‑Sixth Form routes. Students take part in sessions on personal statement writing, student finance, gap years, and degree apprenticeships, alongside university visits and workshops led by staff and industry specialists. Together, these opportunities form a programme that is dynamic, forward‑thinking, and deeply supportive. Whether students are interested in traditional academic routes, emerging industries, or more unconventional pathways, SCHS ensures every individual is equipped with the insight, experience, and ambition to shape their future with purpose.

At Streatham & Clapham High School, we don’t just prepare students for the next step—we empower them to step forward with confidence, curiosity, and aspiration.