Supporting the Gatsby Framework: easia’s role in delivering world-class careers guidance
Ten years after their introduction, the Gatsby Benchmarks for good careers guidance have become a cornerstone of careers provision across more than 4,700 schools and colleges in England. These benchmarks, originally developed by Sir John Holman on behalf of the Gatsby Foundation, define what outstanding careers guidance looks like and offer a structured framework to help education settings support students in their career development. Following two years of rigorous research and consultation, the benchmarks have recently been updated to ensure their relevance in a world shaped by rapid technological advancements, shifts in the labour market, and innovations in education.
At easia, we align closely with the Gatsby Benchmarks, integrating their principles into our services and resources to empower schools and colleges. Here’s how we contribute to each of the eight benchmarks:
1. A Stable careers programme
easia provides schools and colleges with structured, comprehensive careers programmes tailored to their specific needs. Our digital tools and resources help Careers Leaders develop, implement, and track careers strategies, ensuring consistency and effectiveness across the institution.
2. Learning from careers and labour market information
Understanding the labour market is vital for informed career decision-making. easia equips students, educators, and parents with up-to-date, accessible labour market insights through rich media and interactive content.
3. Addressing the needs of each student
We are currently developing a career profiling tools that assess students’ strengths, interests, and aspirations, helping educators deliver tailored support. We focus on inclusivity, ensuring that underrepresented groups receive targeted guidance to overcome barriers and achieve their goals.
4. Linking curriculum learning to careers
Our resources bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers. By integrating career-relevant content into the curriculum, easia helps educators demonstrate the practical applications of subjects like STEM, humanities, and the arts. For example, we provide case studies and lesson plans that highlight how academic concepts are used in various industries.
5. Encounters with employers and employees
easia creates and distributes employer engagement content, such as talking-head video content and social media content. These initiatives connect students with professionals across diverse fields, offering insights into the workplace and inspiring ambition.
6. Experiences of workplaces
Workplace experiences are invaluable for understanding career pathways. easia facilitates virtual work experience knowledge and experience – students gain first-hand exposure to professional environments. Our partnerships with local and national businesses help broaden access to meaningful placements.
7. Encounters with further and higher education
Navigating post-secondary options can be daunting for students and their families. easia supports this benchmark by hosting college and university fairs, providing virtual campus tours, and offering guidance on apprenticeships and vocational training. Our goal is to ensure every student has a clear understanding of their next steps.
8. Personal guidance
easia’s designed to support careers advisers to be familiar with their local labour market and as a tool to direct their students and clients to in order to support their sessions.
Adapting to the future
As the Gatsby Benchmarks evolve, so too does our approach. easia continuously updates its tools and strategies to align with new guidance and address emerging challenges in education and employment. Whether through cutting-edge digital platforms, personalised support, or industry partnerships, we are committed to helping schools and colleges achieve excellence in careers provision.
