CAREER-minded students have been given a glimpse of the future thanks to a week-long initiative designed to open their minds to the world of work.
Year 7 to 11 pupils at Haughton Academy, part of the Education Village, Darlington, took part in a host of events to celebrate National Careers Week.
A host of colleges, training and apprenticeship providers and employers set out their stalls in a market place event in the school hall for children of all ages, providing the opportunity to quiz staff and collect valuable information.
Year 7s used an electronic database which explored their personalities and recommended an appropriate career.
A business carousel for Year 8s saw them take part in careers ‘speed dating’ where they had just seven minutes to interview staff from 10 local businesses.
Year 10s were given an insight into interview techniques by staff from local businesses and colleges.
Haughton Academy’s careers, education, information, advice and guidance officer Suzanne Lyons said: “The aim is to get pupils to think outside of the box and to appreciate exactly the rich diversity of opportunities out there for them.
“We have had some great support again from local colleges, trainers and businesses and the feedback has been that our students have been thoroughly engaged and asked some fantastic questions.”
She said one year 9 pupil had mapped out her full career after talking to Darlington College. “She wants to work for Emirates as cabin crew, eventually working in beauty therapy in Dubai,” said Suzanne. “Many of our students were also interested in apprenticeships.”
Year 11 student Arizona Rutter said: “I would love to be an accountant one day because I love figures and money. It has been a brilliant week for all the students especially those who didn’t know what they wanted to do.”