The group were preparing for life after school, and exploring possible career options, under the guidance of our Assistant Headteacher and Careers Lead, Claire Whitehouse, and Careers Administrator Abi Warner.

Mock Interview Day saw potential employers visit the students to conduct practice interview sessions at Marshland, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

“Twelve employers from companies around the local area come in and carry out 15-minute interviews with the students,” explained Mrs Whitehouse. “They then provide opportunities for students to ask questions about their pathways to employment.

“The employers provide feedback to the students, enabling them to identify where their strengths were and what they can work on to further improve for future interviews.

“Students have the opportunity to practise an interview and hone their skills in advance of future interviews. This allows them to be more comfortable and confident going to interviews for sixth form, college, or apprenticeships, when they prepare for their next steps.”

Some of the Year 10 cohort also went on to complete work placements during Work Experience Week  – including five who went to Bramble Lodge Alpacas.

They had previously spent time identifying their strengths and skills, and preparing CVs and cover letters to apply to different employers.
 

“They identified companies for us to contact about a work experience placement, and their CVs and covering letters were sent to the employers,” said Mrs Whitehouse.

“All the work gets done in the background by the school to ensure all the documents are in place. Students then go to their chosen company for a week. They perform tasks required of the role they are taking.

“The aim is that all students have the opportunity to experience what it is like to be at work – for all to develop the soft skills required for employability.”