Pupils at a Derby school were given a taste of the working world as some of the city’s most inspiring leaders dropped in for a careers day.
Students at The Bemrose School in Derby, on Uttoxeter Road, took part in hands-on STEM and problem-solving activities that mirrored real-world challenges, particularly those faced in the water industry.
The event was delivered by Severn Trent Water, who led a range of immersive sessions to engage students and introduce them to careers in the water and environmental sector.
CEO John Yarham from the Careers & Enterprise Company, MP Catherine Atkinson and representatives from the East Midlands Combined County Authority also attended to witness the school’s careers programme in action and support the next generation in planning their futures.
John Yarham said: “Opportunities like this are vital in helping young people understand the breadth of careers available to them and the skills they need to succeed.
“By connecting education with real-world experiences, we can raise aspirations, develop key skills and ensure every student feels confident about their future.”
Students also took part in a series of fast-paced, practical challenges, including building towers from playing cards and responding to a simulated burst water main.
These activities encouraged teamwork, planning and problem-solving, with students testing structural designs, working under pressure and adapting when things went wrong.
The event was available for all students from primary school up to sixth form
Year six pupil, Luca from The Bemrose Primary School, said: “I really enjoyed taking part in the activities, they were brilliant.
“It was great to meet some of the secondary pupils, they were really helpful.”
A careers assembly took place around the same time as the event, giving all secondary pupils guidance on potential career paths and future opportunities. Visual cards were used to spark conversations about aspirations, with students sharing their goals while staff reflected on their own job roles, career journeys and the skills they have developed along the way.
Claire Amos, careers lead at The Bemrose School, said: “The event highlighted the importance of meaningful employer engagement in preparing young people for their futures.
“By connecting students directly with industry professionals, the programme helps to broaden horizons, raise aspirations and equip learners with the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
“At Bemrose, preparing students for their future careers is at the heart of everything we do. We offer a range of activities throughout their time with us to ensure they are well-prepared for life after school.”
Headteacher Neil Wilkinson added: “We are proud of a careers provision that not only increases opportunities but also works to challenge barriers to social mobility, opening doors and changing lives for every student.”
This press release was distributed by Penguin PR. To find out more contact Sarah-Louise Elton on 01332 416228 or by email at [email protected]
