Year 9 pupils stepped off their normal timetable on Tuesday for their Inspiring Futures Day, designed to support them as they begin thinking about their GCSE Options.
Throughout the day, pupils participated in workshops designed to support their decision-making. For those looking ahead, pupils completed a personality test to identify their individual personality types. Using their results, they gained insight into their strengths and preferences, helping them make more informed choices when considering options. The activity also provided a tailored list of potential career paths, sparking lively discussion and reflection as pupils compared and discussed their results.
In another workshop, pupils learned how to use Unifrog, an online platform that helps pupils to explore and apply for post-school options like university, apprenticeships, and further education. During this session, pupils also completed an interest quiz, a questionnaire designed to help them identify their preferences, hobbies, and career interests, offering insight into areas where they might enjoy working, learning, or spending their time.
In a session called Future Smart, a careers advisor delivered a presentation on the various pathways available after finishing school, covering further education, career options, and routes into different professions. Pupils then put their teamwork skills to the test by building a tower using only one marshmallow, spaghetti, string, and tape. Working in groups outside of their usual friendship circles, they collaborated to overcome the challenge, mirroring the dynamics of a real workplace environment.
Pupils also took part in taster lessons in their new GCSE options: Geology, Computer Science, and Academic PE.
In Computer Science, pupils took part in a multi-step password challenge. Working in pairs, they completed five tasks that required logic, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills to uncover clues and ultimately reveal the final password.
In Academic PE, pupils received an informative presentation on the structure of the GCSE course, including theoretical components, assessment requirements, and the range of professions that a GCSE in PE can lead to.
In Geology, the session began with hands-on rock identification, giving pupils the opportunity to handle and classify a variety of rock types, before moving on to a short activity focused on detecting volcanic eruptions.
There was even an optional session on US college applications and sports scholarships, providing additional insight into international pathways.
Truro School’s Inspiring Futures Day aims to give our Year 9 pupils the information, confidence, and curiosity they need as they begin shaping their next steps. With a full and varied programme, this year’s cohort is now well-equipped to approach their options decisions in the new year.
