As secondary schools navigate the requirements of the Ofsted Report Card and look ahead to the 2028 curriculum changes, the focus on raising career aspirations has become a central priority. For Lift Tamworth (formerly Tamworth Enterprise College) , part of Lift Schools (formerly Academies Enterprise Trust), this work is built on a foundation of strategic partnerships and deep curriculum integration.
A journey toward career aspirations
In conjunction with the Stoke & Staffordshire Careers Hub and the Careers and Enterprise Company, Lift Tamworth has focused on equipping students with the competencies required for future employment.
A significant milestone in this journey was the implementation of the Skills Builder Universal Framework. The primary aim of this initiative is to ensure that career development and skill-building are not separate activities, but are instead embedded into the daily culture of the entire school community.
Implementation: A whole-school approach
The integration at Lift Tamworth is visible across the school site and throughout the timetable, demonstrating a model of consistency that is highly effective for schools within a Multi-Academy Trust:
- Visibility and environment: Skill icons and framework descriptions are displayed in every classroom. A large Skills Builder display in the main foyer acts as a daily visual reminder of the eight essential skills.
- Curriculum integration: Explicit skill-building is integrated into the PSHE curriculum and dedicated tutor time for all students from Year 7 to Year 11. This ensures consistent development in skills such as Teamwork, Problem Solving, and Leadership.
- Reflection and recognition: Students use their planners to document their experiences and reflections, creating a record of their development that is celebrated through half-termly ceremonies and end-of-year assemblies.
Impact: Real-world application
By working through the Skills Builder Accelerator, the school has been able to turn abstract skills into practical, real-world outcomes. The partnership provides a structured roadmap that ensures high-quality Personal Development:
- Work experience: Every Year 10 student participates in work experience, applying their essential skills in professional settings.
- Employability tools: Students attend workshops to integrate their skills into their CVs and participate in individual careers interviews to align their strengths with their future goals.
- Data-led alignment: Staff utilise Skills Builder Hub for assessments, ensuring that the school’s efforts remain aligned with their student development goals.
The programme is overseen by dedicated staff who ensure the consistency and quality of these initiatives across the college. This structured approach provides a clear example for Multi-Academy Trusts on how to maintain high standards of Personal Development across individual settings.
Build your roadmap for 2026-27
The experience of Lift Tamworth demonstrates the power of a universal framework when supported by a clear school and Trust vision. As the educational landscape evolves, their journey offers a proven path for schools and Multi-Academy Trusts looking to simplify and strengthen their skills strategy.
We are currently accepting applications for our 2026-27 Accelerator cohort, with 200 fully-funded places available to help you build a similar roadmap for success.
