³Ô¹ÏÏÖ³¡

Writes Sue Grice, Head of Careers

The recent L6th Future Ready Day proved to be an inspiring and highly practical experience for our Sixth Form students, offering valuable insight into the realities of recruitment in today’s fast-changing world of work.

Designed by the Careers Department, the event aimed to equip students with hands-on experience of the key stages involved in securing work experience, internships, and future employment. As students approach these important milestones over the next few years, the day provided a timely opportunity to develop confidence, understanding, and essential employability skills.

A particular strength of the event was the involvement of our wider school community. A group of parents and alumni generously volunteered their time, bringing with them current, first-hand experience of early careers recruitment across a range of industries. Crucially, students were able to practise with adults they did not already know, creating a more authentic experience. This enabled them to step outside their comfort zones and develop their skills in a safe yet realistic environment, closely reflecting real-life recruitment scenarios.

The day began with an engaging and thought-provoking keynote address from Deborah Phethean, a parent, working at the leading edge of HR practices. She shared expert insights into the future world of work, highlighting how rapidly evolving technology, shifting employer priorities, and new recruitment practices are shaping opportunities for young people. Her talk encouraged students to think proactively about their personal development, adaptability, and how to navigate an increasingly competitive landscape.

Throughout the day, students participated in a dynamic carousel of practical activities, each designed to simulate different stages of the recruitment process.

Students began by developing one of the most important interview skills: responding effectively to competency-based questions. Working in small, supportive coaching-style trios with our volunteer professionals, they practised structuring their answers using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This approach enabled them to articulate their achievements clearly and confidently, while benefiting from immediate, personalised feedback.

They later applied these techniques in an asynchronous interview, responding to a set of pre-recorded questions—an increasingly common format used by employers. This activity challenged students to present themselves professionally on camera, manage their time effectively, and maintain clarity and composure without a live interviewer.

Replicating another key stage of the recruitment process, students then took part in a mock group assessment, where they were tasked with solving a boardroom-style challenge. Working collaboratively, they were observed by our volunteers in a format designed to mirror how employers assess teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Following the activity, students received detailed feedback on their performance, including their strengths, areas for development, and insight into what recruiters are looking for in these scenarios.

Feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting how valuable it was to learn directly from professionals.

Overall, the L6th Future Ready Day provided a comprehensive and engaging journey through the recruitment process. Students left the day better prepared, more confident, and with a clearer sense of what it means to be truly future ready as they look ahead to the opportunities and challenges beyond school.