A high degree of sense: graduate apprenticeships a hot topic at careers event

A high degree of sense: graduate apprenticeships a hot topic at careers event

More than 300 QE sixth-formers gathered to hear about career opportunities from some of the largest employers and associations representing professionals.

High on the agenda was the topic of the new graduate apprenticeships, which allow undergraduates to ‘earn while they learn’ – simultaneously studying towards a degree and gaining practical experience, with the advantage that the apprentice is not accumulating student debt.

Representatives from IBM, accountancy giant BDO, consumer credit reporting agency Experian and CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) were among those who met QE’s Year 12 and 13 pupils.

Companies ran workshops on employability skills such as psychometric testing, using social media to network, writing effective CVs and interview techniques.

Thanking the participating organisations afterwards, QE’s Head of Pupil Development, Sarah Westcott, reflected on the success of the event: “Students certainly got an overview of what modern apprenticeships can offer, as well as improving their awareness of what companies look for in applicants.”

The event was part of QE’s ongoing careers programme, which is designed to broaden boys’ horizons about the world of work. It was facilitated by young entrepreneur Dan Miller and his organisation, Young Professionals UK. It was, he said, a “great day” and he had enjoyed the opportunity to engage with such a large group of sixth-formers.