STUDENTS are being inspired to reach for the stars and achieve their goals by a careers department which has won national recognition.

Richmond School and Sixth Form College has become one of the first schools in the country to be awarded the prestigious Quality in Careers Standard.

The award is the new national standard all schools must work towards in order to help students get the best careers advice.

Over the last two years the school has worked towards the award, and technology teachers Susan Thornton and Tom Braham also supported the initiative with STEM careers events.

An important part of the award is work experience, and this year 375 students will go into the workplace, with many securing part-time jobs.

Richmond sixth former Joe Collins, 17, of Richmond, said the careers programme provided an opportunity to talk to university representatives about reading a degree in architecture.

“It was really useful hearing about the course content,” he said. “It is a long training – seven years – but I think it will be worth it to have a career which I am passionate about and is different every day.”

Headteacher Jenna Potter said: “On top of impressive exam grades, our students come out with a host of transferable skills that prepare them for their futures.

"You can see a real change in them, in their self-confidence, skills and knowledge.

“They are resilient, confident and capable and we are totally committed to the careers programme and the pivotal part it plays in the development of young people."

Chairman of Governors James Robson added: As the careers link governor I am delighted that our school has achieved this highly important standard."