Warlingham Careers Week 2025
Warlingham School and Sixth Form College has once again celebrated a highly successful Warlingham Careers Week, aligning with National Careers Week to provide students with valuable insights into the world of work. Throughout the week, every student across all year groups engaged in Careers in the Curriculum activities, exploring how their subjects connect to real-world professions. From interactive lessons to independent Home Learning tasks, students discovered the vast career opportunities linked to their studies.
A major highlight of the week was the Inspire Sessions on Tuesday morning, where each tutor group had the opportunity to hear from a guest speaker, either in person or virtually. These professionals, including an entrepreneur, a physiotherapist, a financier, and a charity worker, shared their career journeys, discussed key industry roles, and highlighted the essential skills needed for success. Students were highly engaged, asking insightful questions and gaining a deeper understanding of the pathways available to them.
The week culminated in the Futures First Careers Fair, now in its fourth year. This event brought together 16 employers and higher education representatives, including the Royal Navy, NHS, British Red Cross, University Campus of Football Business, and Gatwick Airport, amongst many others. Nearly 700 students from Years 10 to 13 participated, speaking with exhibitors, collecting information, and engaging in interactive activities designed to showcase different industries and career options.
Feedback from both students and exhibitors was overwhelmingly positive. Representatives were impressed by the enthusiasm and curiosity of Warlingham students, with some even offering future work experience and trip opportunities. One employer praised the students for their well-prepared and thoughtful questions, while another noted the meaningful discussions that took place, from career planning to global issues.
Students also found the experience eye-opening. Rowan (Year 11) was struck by how “in areas that seem very specialised, there are often lots of behind-the-scenes jobs requiring diverse skills and qualifications.” George (Year 10) appreciated learning about work flexibility from the British Red Cross, while Holly (Year 12) discovered how reading lecturers’ published work can strengthen a university application.
A huge thank you to all the employers, staff, and students who made Warlingham Careers Week 2025 such a resounding success. We are already looking forward to what next year’s event will bring!