Careers Support
Our Careers Service is here to help you take your next step – whether that's further study, an apprenticeship, university or employment.
Get expert advice, CV and interview support, and access to real employer opportunities.
Got a quick question or need more in-depth support?
Drop in, message us on Teams, or book an appointment and we'll help you figure it out.
Students
Our careers programme helps you plan your future. You'll explore different pathways and develop the skills you need to succeed beyond college.
As part of the programme, you'll:
- learn about career pathways linked to your course
- take part in careers events, employer talks and industry activities
- explore apprenticeships, higher education and employment options
- develop employability skills such as communication, teamwork and self-awareness
You'll also have access to one-to-one careers guidance at key decision points – impartial, up to date and built around you.
We want you to leave EDC with the confidence to make informed, ambitious choices about your future, whatever that looks like for you.
Parents and carers
We keep you informed as we support your child to make confident choices about their future.
Your child can expect:
- a planned programme of careers education throughout their time at college
- impartial careers guidance from qualified professionals
- opportunities to meet employers, training providers and universities
- information on labour market trends and progression routes
Careers learning is built into the curriculum from day one. We'll share updates through events, briefings and online resources, and we're always happy to talk you through your child’s next steps.
Meet the Careers team
A career is more than a job. It's your journey through life, learning and work, shaped by your education, interests, influences, local job market and the world around us.
For every nurse, bricklayer, or teacher, there are thousands of roles you didn’t know existed – like Prosthetist, Sustainability Supervisor or Progression Coach – so there’s no pressure to find 'the one' while still at college.
The CDI Framework 2021 is woven into your curriculum, tutorials and college life. The goal isn't to point you towards one job – it's to help you build skills that grow with you as your career evolves.
Our team in college
Matthew Reid
I’m a qualified Careers Advisor at EDC. Before this, I spent over 16 years teaching in a local secondary school, and before that, I managed a multiplex cinema – so I’ve had a bit of practice making career choices and changes. I’m passionate about helping you make the best choice for you, without trying to influence you. I’ll admit, I’m a little jealous of the choices you’ve got ahead!
Lorna Jennings
Hi, I’m Lorna, a qualified Careers Adviser with over 25 years’ experience helping people make informed choices. Our Careers Service isn’t just information and planning – it’s discovering what matters to you and finding your purpose. There are so many opportunities out there, so come and speak to one of the team to find out more!
Crystal Booth-Curtis
Hi, I’m Crystal, the newest member of the team, after completing my Careers Guidance Apprenticeship. I’ve been on a journey myself – I’ve worked as a copywriter, marketing coordinator, support worker and dental nurse – so I understand that you might not know exactly what you want to do yet. Making decisions can feel scary, and that’s why I’m here to talk through your options and help however I can.
Supporting our careers programme
Lindsay Wood
Lindsay supports the college in developing and improving our careers programme. Her day job is Programme Manager at Wellbeing for Life, and she’s part of the senior leadership team at Pioneering Care Partnership, helping build partnerships and collaborations across the region.
David Gibson
David is a Special Advisor within the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority’s Inclusive Futures team, supporting programmes that improve outcomes for young people around careers, skills and inclusion. He works closely with Matthew and Lindsay to help shape our careers programme.
