Every student deserves the chance to discover where their ambitions could take them, and the Have a Go Fair, during Careers Week, helped bring those possibilities closer to reality.
The staff at St David’s College are committed to giving young people the best chance of success. That means that, as well as delivering quality education, it is equally important to help learners explore the wide range of student career opportunities available to them after they leave.
The recent Have a Go Fair did exactly that, bringing together universities, employers and industry experts to speak with students about their next steps and what their futures could look like.
The Sports Hall had an energetic atmosphere, as students had the chance to speak with representatives from some of the country’s top universities, highlighting the many university opportunities for students considering higher education.
The likes of Cardiff University and Swansea University highlighted what is available closer to home. At the same time, institutions such as the University of Exeter and the London School of Economics offered insight into studying further afield.
Students were also able to learn about the University Campus of ESports, based in London’s Olympic Park. It provided a great example of the many different ways learners can continue their education after leaving St David’s.
As well as explaining the courses and opportunities available, representatives shared helpful advice on preparing for university applications and how students can give themselves the best chance of success.
Applying to university can feel daunting, especially when learners are unsure where to begin.
Fortunately, The Launchpad offers plenty of support, and specialist staff at St David’s are on hand to guide learners along that path.
In Lower Sixth, students receive guidance and advice to help them begin their UCAS journey. Towards the end of the academic year, learners should start researching the universities and courses they may wish to apply for.
In Upper Sixth, students are assigned a Progression Mentor who helps them make important decisions about their future. Mentors also provide support with UCAS applications and personal statements if university is their chosen pathway.
The Sports Hall was not only filled with universities. Students also spoke with employers and professionals from a wide range of industries and learned more about potential student career opportunities.
Rio Architects, who designed the recent rebuilding of our Main Hall and continue to work on projects with the college, spoke with students about careers in architecture. Another architectural practice, The Urbanists, was also present and discussed opportunities for valuable work experience.
Students interested in finance visited the Barclays and Deloitte stands to learn more about industry careers and what employers are looking for.
There were also opportunities to explore careers in the medical field, with organisations such as Proactive Chiropractic and specialists in Adult Speech and Language Therapy sharing insights into their work.
For those considering starting their own business, Big Ideas Wales provided advice and inspiration. The organisation focuses on encouraging and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit in young people across Wales.
Students were also able to explore careers that help make a difference in local communities, including roles with His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service and Cardiff Council.
The Have a Go Fair was a hugely valuable experience for students at St David’s College.
It allowed learners to explore the wide range of opportunities available after college and gain a clearer understanding of the different paths they could take.
Whether students continue to university or move straight into the workplace, events like this give them the knowledge and confidence to shape their future.
If any learners or parents feel like they missed an opportunity, get in touch with the Launchpad who can push you in the right direction.
