Early in the year, our A level and vocational business department collaborated with ‘WorKing Options’ to successfully deliver a series of talks from expert guest speakers.  ‘WorKing Options’ is an employability and life skills charity that has been helping young people to aim high and fulfil their potential since 2010.

The speakers focussed on a wide range of topics including recruitment, management and motivation.  Over 500 students heard from Sharon Mason from SMUK, Jim McDonnell from BT, Luke Talbot from Userlane and Nicky Stapleton from Veritas about their experiences. 

The talks offered students an insight into current industry practice – this invaluable information can be used by students to support their coursework and essay responses.  Each session also gave students the opportunity to ask questions and hear first-hand about how each speaker had navigated their career from leaving school to their current position.

Over the course of the two day event, the speakers commented on how our students positively engaged with the sessions, and have since offered further advice and guidance on apprenticeships and graduate opportunities.

Emily Jones, Curriculum Manager for vocational business, said, “We would like to thank Claire McMaster from ‘WorKing Options’ for supporting us with coordinating the guest speakers.  It was a team effort and an event we look forward to running next year!”