St Bartholomew's School, Newbury hosts careers fair to showcase job opportunities
Students in Newbury were given the chance to consider their future professions, in their school’s first careers fair.
The event was held at St Bartholomew’s School last week and more than 50 different professions were represented.
Volunteers gave up their time to discuss their jobs with the pupils, which ranged from nursing, midwifery, the Army, PCSOs, plumbers, IT software experts, a professional female cricketer, a female jockey, and people working in artificial intelligence and F1.
“We originally planned it for July 2020 but decided to go with it this term and thankfully it was fine,” said organiser Denise Seward, head of business and economics and careers leader at St Bart’s.
“I just wanted them to see their options; to open their eyes to a range of individuals that do so many different things. At that young age there’s so much out there, so many different jobs.
“I think it’s really important for them to realise that every job is important. Whatever they choose to do, it’s of value.
“I was very, very pleased with how it went. The students were really engaged with it and the feedback from the visitors was really positive.”
Around 800 students from years 7, 8 and 9 were given the opportunity to meet the businesspeople and ask questions about their careers.
Student Eli said: “I really enjoyed it and it gave me lots of inspiration about what I want to do in the future.”
While fellow pupil, Louisa, added: “It was interesting to learn about all the careers and jobs there are and I really enjoyed talking to people.”
One of the volunteers who joined the day, Fiona from Vodafone, said: “It was super to see such engaged students who are interested in all the different careers available.”
Rob, a doctor, said it was “great to see so many students engaged and asking really insightful questions about possible career options”.
“It's really important that young people consider different paths in life - further education, apprenticeships, employment,” he added. “Events like these allow students to find out what a career is really like day to day and how to access that career, rather than judge by what they see on TV or in the media.”
