Heather Vernon

About Me

In my role as Careers and Business Development Lead at The Norton Knatchbull School I play a central role in shaping my school’s strategic approach to careers education, information, advice, and guidance (CEIAG). Through personalised guidance, structured interventions, and a strong understanding of the evolving labour market, I support students to identify and pursue their strengths, interests, and long‑term ambitions. My work fosters confidence, motivation, and a positive work ethic all qualities that have a lasting impact on students as they transition into post‑16 and post‑18 pathways. I lead on the design, implementation, and evaluation of our comprehensive careers programme that aligns with the Gatsby Benchmarks and supports the school’s whole‑school improvement goals. My ability to build relationships with staff, external partners, employers, and higher education providers ensures students receive high‑quality opportunities, from work experience to apprenticeships and employer lead engagement. My approach to our careers programme delivery helps ensure that the school remains forward‑thinking, responsive to change, and ambitious in its offer. I am constantly looking to cultivate partnerships with employers, training providers, and community organisations to significantly expand the school’s network of opportunities. These collaborations enhance curriculum relevance, support student engagement and employability, and promote meaningful encounters with the world of work. By staying current with educational policies, careers‑related research, and industry trends, I can continually enhance both my own practice and the school’s wider careers provision.