How business involvement can help schools deliver Gatsby Benchmark 3
Gatsby Benchmark 3 is one of the most ambitious parts of the careers guidance framework. It recognises that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Young people need individual, inclusive support to raise their aspirations and make informed decisions about their future.
It asks schools to do three important things:
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Tailor guidance to each pupil’s needs and stage
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Actively challenge stereotypical thinking
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Maintain clear, accessible records that support career development
All of this takes time, consistency and resources. Many schools want to deliver it well but often lack the capacity. This is where CSR funding through Bright Futures Experience can transform what is possible.
We design and deliver careers and employability workshops that meet the expectations of Benchmark 3, and your support as a business helps us bring these into schools that might otherwise go without.
What the benchmark requires
Let’s break down what Gatsby Benchmark 3 means in practice and how CSR can help schools deliver it meaningfully.
1. Tailored support at the right time
Pupils develop at different paces. A Year 8 student might need broad exposure, while a Year 12 pupil might need specific guidance on university, apprenticeships or employment. Our workshops are adapted to suit different year groups and ability levels, ensuring relevance and accessibility for every student.
2. Challenging stereotypes, raising ambition, and promoting equality and inclusion
Students can often hold narrow views of the careers they can pursue. They may never have seen someone like them in a leadership role, in a STEM career, or working in a creative field. We introduce students to diverse professionals across many different employment sectors. We also use Labour Market Information to help students to understand the careers landscape as a whole and share organisations that support young people from all backgrounds to enter specific careers. Our workshops open minds and change trajectories.
3. Supporting record-keeping
Schools are expected to keep systematic records of the advice given to pupils and the decisions that follow. Students should also have access to these records to support their own development. We provide follow-up resources to assist schools in identifying the skills and knowledge they developed during our workshops.
Why CSR is the missing link
None of this is easy. Schools face huge demands on time and budget. Many want to personalise support but can’t stretch their resources far enough. That’s where CSR funding makes the difference.
By funding Bright Futures Experience to deliver these programmes, your business helps schools:
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Give every pupil access to meaningful, personalised careers education
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Involve real professionals in raising aspirations
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Create inclusive and impactful learning experiences
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Strengthen their ability to meet Gatsby Benchmark 3
Why it matters to business
This isn’t about ticking a CSR box. It’s a strategic opportunity to support future talent, improve social mobility and show what your company stands for. By investing in aspiration, you’re investing in the next generation of employees, leaders and innovators.
Your support means:
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More students feel capable and motivated to pursue their goals
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Schools can deliver personalised guidance and record meaningful outcomes
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Businesses can contribute to inclusive, long-term change that benefits everyone
Let’s raise aspirations together
Every student deserves the chance to see what they could become. With your CSR support, we can help schools go beyond basic guidance and create genuine moments of inspiration, belief and ambition.
Fund the change. Support real impact. Help deliver Gatsby Benchmark 3.
