About EC Careers
Passionate about helping young people find their path
EC Careers was founded with a single purpose — to give every student access to the kind of expert, impartial careers guidance that genuinely changes lives.
Meet the founder
Cat Akkerman
Founder & Lead Careers Adviser
Cat founded EC Careers after more than 20 years working in careers education and guidance across the UK and abroad. A Level 6 qualified careers adviser and DBS-cleared professional, Cat has supported thousands of students aged 11+ to make confident, well-informed decisions about their futures.
Her approach is rooted in the belief that every young person deserves impartial, personalised guidance — not a one-size-fits-all conversation. Whether a student is weighing up A levels versus an apprenticeship, considering university at home or abroad, or simply unsure where to start, Cat and her team take the time to truly understand each individual.
Our mission
"Our mission is to deliver top quality careers guidance to students and careers education support to our schools. We aim to inspire and enlighten so students can prepare and plan a successful future. We are here to support schools and colleges in providing a comprehensive, impactful, and sustainable careers education program that gives students the tools and confidence to succeed."
Who we are
At EC Careers, we believe that every student deserves a positive, engaging, and empowering experience throughout their careers education journey. A positive experience is essential to helping students feel confident, supported, and motivated as they explore their future opportunities.
We work with many schools and are the trusted partner of some of the leading independent, grammar and state schools in the UK and abroad. We have built a very strong track record of delivering inspiring careers programmes and highly effective guidance to students.
EC Careers employs 20 qualified and experienced Careers Advisers, who offer impartial careers guidance and a caring approach to all students. All Careers Advisers are qualified to Level 6 or 7, who uphold the CDI's professional code of ethics, undertake regular safeguarding and CPD training and who have enhanced DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) status.
What drives us
Our values
Impartiality
We have no vested interest in where a student ends up. Our only goal is to help them find the path that's right for them.
Expertise
All our advisers are Level 6 or 7 qualified and DBS cleared, with deep knowledge of UK and international education pathways.
Personalisation
Every student is different. We take time to understand each individual's strengths, interests and aspirations before offering guidance.
Partnership
We work closely with schools, parents and students as a seamless extension of your careers team — proactive, approachable and reliable.
Credentials
Qualifications & accreditations
Our advisers hold the highest professional qualifications in careers guidance, giving schools complete confidence in the quality of support their students receive.
Ready to bring expert careers guidance to your school?
Get in touch to discuss how EC Careers can support your students and help your school meet the Gatsby Benchmarks.
Contact us today