Last week was our annual Highgate Employability Week and National Careers Week. Our theme this year was “Discover” with the aim being for pupils in the Senior School to recognise the value that comes from trying new things and getting involved in activities they might enjoy.
Throughout the week, pupils took part in a range of inspiring and interactive activities; we had lesson starters across all years and subjects discussing the range of pathways former pupils have taken, as well as lunchtime “Industry Insight” talks.
On Tuesday, Highgate parent, Pallavi Mahajan, gave a fascinating talk exploring the work of Hewlett Packard Enterprise helping to deliver the fastest supercomputers that accelerate drug discovery, enable accurate weather predictions, improve artificial intelligence and other human advancements.
On Thursday, we heard from OC Freddie Keighley who shared his experience working as a Digital Sports Reporter specialising in Premier League and European football, covering matches, press conferences and the latest transfer news from across the continent.
Pupils in Year 9 and Year 11 had a special curriculum time OC panel hearing the “Different pathways to success” that three former Highgate pupils have taken ranging from a Degree Apprenticeship, starting a business and working around the world before retraining in a new area.
On Thursday, we also held our annual careers fair for pupils in Y11-13. We were delighted to virtually welcome 34 speakers and over 250 pupils and parents from Highgate, London Academy of Excellence, Tottenham, and our Chrysalis partner schools. Pupil feedback was positive with attendees praising the range of sessions available and the invaluable insight and advice our speakers shared.
Pupils shared feedback on how they benefitted:
“I liked hearing a range of speakers because the workplace is so big and it was good to see different options that I might not have thought of.” Pupil, 11MG
“I found it interesting to hear how each person came to be in their current position and learning about their day-to-day work life.” Pupil, 12WG
Our thanks go to all who supported the week and our Careers programme more widely. Please do contact careers@highagteschool.org.uk if you’d like to find out more and support in the future. Further details about the Careers programme can also be found here.
