Careers Extravaganza Brings Local Pupils and Businesses Together

Historic College Hall looked towards exciting futures this week as it played host to the fourth annual Careers Extravaganza, which saw record numbers of exhibitors and pupils attending from across the local area.

The event, which spanned two afternoons, saw over 60 organisations and 500 guests spend time discussing the wide range of careers pathways available to pupils.

Pupils and their families from King’s, along with other schools in the local area, spent time finding out a breadth of information from exhibitors, with many commenting on the valuable insights they received about the opportunities and educational paths for careers.

As a school, we place great importance on the strength of our partnerships with local employers in supporting pupils as they consider their future education and career choices. This year’s exhibitors covered an exciting range of careers, from publishing, to banking, to life sciences, to army careers and many, many more, alongside stands from local universities and apprenticeships providers.

The exhibitors were impressed by the curiosity of the pupils attending, and how insightful their questions were; reflecting our ongoing commitment to preparing pupils for the world beyond King’s.

Claire Gott MBE (Cl 06), from WSP Engineering, commented: “It’s been great to see so many students who are so keen to understand what the opportunities are and are keen to learn about the career paths they can take. As an OV, it’s really nice to see the set-up here in College Hall.”

Lauren Finney, from bio-tech business Bio Diagnostics, said: “I’m so impressed by the level of knowledge and interest of these students. Even people who don’t know what they want to do are asking some amazing questions.”

Inspirational keynote speakers were welcomed on both afternoons; GP Dr Vicki Hicks, (Ombersley Medical Centre), and Lead Advanced Pharmacist Practitioner, Jos Williams, shared insights into their professional journeys and the realities of working in healthcare during the STEM day.

The second day saw a session from Daniel Maguire, Group Head, LSEG Markets Division and CEO of LCH Group at the London Stock Exchange Group, alongside entrepreneur, Hannah Edwards, founder of Eva Capital, who shared insights into their leadership journeys in finance and wealth management, and how their university experiences shaped their paths to success.

All our speakers provided in-depth insights into their respective careers and the different pathways available into them, along with the opportunity for guests to ask a series of insightful questions.

Thank you to all those who exhibited, many of whom are former King’s pupils and current or former parents; the strength of our fantastic school community continues to benefit our pupils as well as those in the wider area.

Many thanks also go to the attendees on both days; we wish you all the very best for a bright future in whichever path you choose.