Careers and Employability Required Access Provision (Baker Clause) and...

At Ralph Allen School, we are committed to delivering a high-quality careers education that supports all students in making informed choices about their futures. In line with the Education Act 1997 and subsequent updates under the Technical and Further Education Act 2017—commonly referred to as the Baker Clause—we ensure that pupils in all year groups have access to a range of education and training providers. 

To connect with Ralph Allen School, please contact our Careers Lead, Mrs Amy Tytherleigh via email a.tytherleigh@palladianacademytrust.com 

The Provider Access Legislation (PAL) strengthens this requirement by ensuring that schools provide students with meaningful encounters with providers of technical education, apprenticeships, and other post-16 and post-18 options. This legislation is crucial in helping students understand the full range of academic and vocational pathways available to them, supporting informed decision-making and promoting social mobility. 

By working in partnership with local employers, colleges, training providers, and universities, we help ensure that every student is given the opportunity to explore and pursue the most suitable route for their career aspirations, scheduled during the main school hours.  All pupils in Years 7 - 11 are entitled to: 

• Find out about technical education qualifications and apprenticeships opportunities, as part of a careers programme which provides information on the full range of education and training options available at each transition point. 

• Hear from a range of local providers about the opportunities they offer, including technical education and apprenticeships – through options events, assemblies and group discussions and taster events as well as the opportunity to ask questions. 

• Understand how to make applications for the full range of academic and technical courses. 

For pupils of compulsory school age these encounters are mandatory and there will be a minimum of:

• 2 encounters that are mandatory for all pupils to attend that take place any time during year 8 or between 1 September and 28 February during year 9
• 2 encounters that are mandatory for all pupils to attend that take place any time during year 10 or between 1 September and 28 February during year 11
• 2 encounters that are mandatory for the school to put on, but optional for pupils to attend, to take place any time during year 12 or between 1 September and 28 February during year 13

Please see our full policy for further information DRAFT Provider Access Policy Jan 2026 - Copy