Gatsby Benchmark 8
Personal guidance
Every learner has guidance interviews with a qualified careers adviser (Level 6 or above) at key points.
Last reviewed 2026-09-30
What Shine records for Benchmark 8
- Staff record one-to-one guidance meetings, tagged to Benchmark 8.
- Follow-up records and check-in dates keep the next step visible.
- The learner's quiz results and CareerMap give an adviser a starting point before the meeting.
What still needs your team
The guidance itself must come from a qualified careers adviser. Shine's quiz and AI tools are not a substitute for a Level 6 guidance interview.
Questions about Benchmark 8
How do I evidence Gatsby Benchmark 8?
Record each guidance interview with a qualified adviser, the date, and the agreed next steps. Shine logs these as one-to-one guidance meetings with follow-ups.
Can an AI careers tool meet Benchmark 8?
No. Benchmark 8 needs a qualified careers adviser. Tools can prepare the learner and record the meeting.
What qualification does a careers adviser need?
Gatsby expects advisers trained to at least Level 6, such as the Qualification in Career Development.
How many guidance interviews should each learner have?
At least one by age 16 and another by 18, with more as needed. Check Gatsby's current criteria for your setting.
Benchmark wording follows Gatsby's November 2024 update. Check the official Gatsby Benchmarks site for full criteria.
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