PUPILS met big name employers including JP Morgan, Cobham and Wessex Water at our recent Careers Fayre.
The event on Thursday November 10 was attended by over 40 companies and education providers and was organised with the support of the Rotary Club of Parkstone.
Pupils and parents from St Aldhelm’s, Parkfield School, Oak Academy and St Edward’s School were able to find out more about a wide range of careers and further education opportunities.
Ewen Davidson, President elect of Parkstone Rotary, said: “This is St Aldhelm’s second annual careers fayre and the turnout from both pupils and businesses has been extremely encouraging.”
He continued: “Businesses exhibiting for the first time this year include Wessex Water, which is currently looking to recruit 40 apprentices.
“We’re also very pleased to have Coleman Insurance, Siemens, Saffery Champness Accountants, Trethowans Solicitors, members of Dorset Police and the armed forces.”
Kacie Sanders was intrigued by the flight simulator being showcased by global defence giant Cobham.
The Year 10 pupil said: “I’m studying for my GCSEs at the moment but I would love to become a pilot. My next stop today is at the Royal Air Force stand.”
Former St Aldhelm’s pupil Casey-Jo O’Brien revealed how the careers fayre has already helped her make important choices about her future.
She explained: “I came to the fayre last year and was introduced to the outdoor adventure company Land and Wave.
“I’m now studying on its BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma and hope to eventually become a travel rep specialising in sports.
“I’m also helping to man the Land and Wave stand today and am talking to current pupils about the opportunities on offer.”
Diana Wilks, HR manager with More Bus said: “We’re been really impressed by the fayre.
“More Bus is keen to recruit young engineers and the pupils we have talked to have been surprised and interested to hear that the bus company which takes them to and from school could also offer them an exciting career.”
St Aldhelm’s executive principal Sian Thomas, said: “In what has become an increasingly competitive job market, it is crucial that Year 10 and 11 students start thinking about the best employment or educational route to take after leaving school.
“The careers fayre is an excellent platform to find out about career opportunities post 16 and today’s event has had a real buzz about it.”
