Gatsby Benchmark 1
A stable careers programme
A planned, published careers programme, led by a named Careers Leader, backed by governors and reviewed with feedback from learners, parents, teachers and employers.
Last reviewed 2026-09-30
What Shine records for Benchmark 1
- The governor PDF export gives a regular, dated summary of activity and coverage to take to governors.
- Benchmark coverage figures show where the programme is thin, which helps the annual review.
What still needs your team
The programme itself, its publication on your website and the Careers Leader role are yours. Shine supports the review; it does not write or publish the programme.
Questions about Benchmark 1
How do I evidence Gatsby Benchmark 1?
Keep a published careers programme, a named Careers Leader and a record of reviewing it with learners, parents, staff and employers. Dated activity and coverage reports, such as Shine's governor export, support the review but do not replace the written programme.
Can software meet Benchmark 1 on its own?
No. Benchmark 1 is about leadership and planning. Software can supply the data for reviewing the programme, but the programme, the named lead and governor oversight must come from the school or college.
Who should own Benchmark 1?
The Careers Leader, with support from senior leaders and a link governor.
How often should the careers programme be reviewed?
Gatsby expects regular review with stakeholder feedback. Many schools and colleges review annually and report termly to governors.
Benchmark wording follows Gatsby's November 2024 update. Check the official Gatsby Benchmarks site for full criteria.
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