Virtual careers room launches for Northumberland SEND Schools

A specialised virtual careers room for the County Council’s schools has been launched to support Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) pupils. 

Developed by AECOM, the virtual careers room is a digital space in which users can interact with information in a variety of different formats and is accessible on mobile phones, tablets, computers and other devices. The project is part of the social value activities AECOM is investing in to uplift local communities alongside its work on the Northumberland Line.

Consisting of five sections – ‘Preparing for Adulthood’, ‘Careers to Explore’, ‘Stories’, ‘The Inclusive Workplace’ and ‘Post-16 Options’ – the virtual careers room was designed to provide advice to SEND students as they enter adulthood, including information and guidance on entering the workforce. 

The ‘Stories’ section will be updated to include testimonials and advice from former students in the region who have successfully embarked on their careers. The room incorporates familiar landmarks from the Northumberland region, with windows looking out on Bamburgh Castle, Hadrian’s Wall and Holy Island/Lindisfarne, connecting users with their local history.

Before the launch, the room was tested with The Dales School in Blyth. 

“The early stages of career development are crucial for primary school children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND),” said James Groundwater, Higher Level Teaching Assistant at The Dales School. 

“It is commendable that AECOM is making exceptional efforts to assist these children in cultivating their career aspirations. It is vital that children with SEND are afforded the same opportunities as their peers regarding career guidance and future objectives. We look forward to the opportunities the virtual room is developing for children.”

Ella Dickinson, Northumberland Line Social Value Lead for AECOM, said: “AECOM’s virtual platforms have seen tremendous success through their initial use for public consultations, making these events more inclusive and accessible than ever for the communities involved. By adapting this technology for Northumberland, we’re helping to create new opportunities and provide wider support across the region.”

Cllr Guy Renner-Thompson, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at the County Council, said: “We are incredibly proud to be launching this specialised virtual careers room in partnership with AECOM. 

"Raising the aspirations of all young people in Northumberland is a top priority for the County Council, and this is especially critical for our students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). It is vital that all young people, regardless of their background or ability, have equal access to comprehensive careers advice and guidance as they plan for adulthood.

“This new digital space directly addresses the additional accessibility challenges that SEND students can face, giving them 24/7 access to key materials, advice, and inspiring stories from former students. The virtual careers room will be a powerful tool in helping our young people better understand their options, explore post-16 pathways, and actively further their career goals as they approach adulthood.”