National Careers Week Afternoon

A varied programme of speakers and guests allowed each year group to meet with representatives from the world of work, higher education and apprenticeships – gaining valuable insights into various careers and pathways that could await them in the future. 

We had the return of the Year 7 NHS competition, ‘Win your Height in Easter Eggs’.  To launch the afternoon, we were really lucky to hear about the varied and globetrotting career of Deborah Newton from our Health Centre.  She really brought to life the experience and the opportunities of working as a nurse and midwife.  We look forward to announcing the Winner of the Year 7 Competition next week!

Years 8 and 9 were introduced to the different tasks of a forensic psychologist in a session delivered by Newcastle University, it looked at witness statements, interview techniques and more besides.  For the second session they had a ‘Meet the Business’ panel event, with guests joining us from Arthur David, Braces Foods, Cadbury House and Glion Institute. It allowed students to hear first-hand about a range of career opportunities and insights into a huge sector that we all depend on daily, together with finding out more about the hospitality industry.

A wide range of careers were represented in the Year 10 and 11 talk in the meeting house.  Their ‘Meet the Business’ session had representatives from Yeo Valley, Penfolds Plastic, Head of Ethics for a major UK company and Commercial IT. They not only shared their career experiences but discussed the opportunities for ‘green careers’ and sustainable business.  The guests were lively and informative, and answered some excellent questions from the students.

Our Sixth Formers attended a range of talks covering; how to make the most of Year 12, Ask Apprenticeships, Transition to University Life and InvestIn Education on recruitment techniques and work experience. We were fortunate to be joined by expert speakers from the higher education and training sector.

A highlight of the afternoon was the return of alumni to share with Year 13 student’s insights on life beyond Sidcot.  We were shown a Rhino Skull and amazing furniture, proving that Sidcotians move into broad and varied careers. We were treated to many different perspectives and the feedback from the 6th Form students was that it was really positive and interesting hearing from older more experienced Sidcotians.

Thank you to all who came to the event and all who helped facilitate a busy, productive afternoon.