National Careers Week 2025
Published on 25.03.2025In celebration of National Careers Week, our students were invited to multiple talks and workshops across the college dedicated to providing students with careers guidance and insights into their future pathways.
HM Prison and Probation Careers Talk
Our Public Services students participated in a careers talk with Steven Bird, a PCO (Prison Custody Officer) at Wandsworth Prison and Probation Service, who described the day-to-day running of the facility and the various careers that exist across the business. He highlighted several career opportunities within the prison that students may not typically consider, such as dog handling, finance, IT and HR roles.
As the prison is a correctional facility, there is a strong emphasis on supporting prisoners with rehabilitation. Steven discussed the importance of being level-headed and empathetic towards the prisoners, explaining how words and actions can make a significant difference in high-pressure situations. He also praised his female colleagues and addressed misconceptions about gender roles in a prison environment, emphasising how their empathy and approach had helped to defuse dangerous situations in the past. He encouraged students to consider a career as a prison officer and highlighted the continuous progression and support available within the institution.
Career Pathways in Childcare Workshop
Our SEND students attended a workshop hosted by The Gap Club, a well-established childcare provider in Berkshire and Surrey, to explore career pathways in childcare. The workshop introduced students to 16 types of play and the key skills and attributes required to begin a career in Early Years and Education.
During the session, students discovered their learning styles and gained valuable insights into child development through various activities. They rotated through different playstations to observe how each activity supports a child’s development—whether emotional, social, physical, or cognitive. Rekha, CEO and founder of The Gap Club, shared her career journey from Playworker to business owner and discussed the multitude of opportunities available for those starting a career in childcare.
Introduction to Creative Careers Presentation
Megan from UCA (University for the Creative Arts) shared her experience of starting a career in radio and provided valuable advice on the diverse creative opportunities available after education. She outlined six key tips for students to help them find their creative career paths:
Research your career goal – Learn how others have reached their goals by seeking insights from friends, family, peers, teachers, or even successful creatives and celebrities that inspire you. While no two journeys are the same, others’ experiences can serve as inspiration.
Explore your options – Whether through a degree, an apprenticeship, or work experience, find out what is required for the job you want.
Create a strong showreel/portfolio – Your portfolio should showcase your skills, experience, and individuality. You can always amend it as you develop new skills, but your portfolio is a vital part in being a creative
Practice makes perfect – Try experimenting in your free time. You never know what you might learn! Don’t wait for the right circumstances and use the tools you have available, for example, phone photography is better than no photography!
Attend events – Sign up to mailing lists to alert you of events, talks and open days and conventions, see work that inspires you and learn from other creatives
Network – Networking plays a vital role in the creative industries, and there’s lots of ways to do it! Collaborate with your peers, get in touch with other aspiring artists or meet new people at events.
National Careers Week provided our students with invaluable insights into their diverse career opportunities, equipping them with knowledge and inspiration for their future career paths. Through engaging talks and hands-on workshops, students explored careers in public services, childcare and creative industries, gaining practical advice and encouragement from professionals. We hope that the lessons learned during this week will empower our students to pursue their ambitions with confidence and determination.
