Students at Isca Academy in Exeter explored a wide range of career opportunities during the school’s third annual Careers Fair, held as part of National Careers Week.

Employers, further education providers and training organisations spoke with students about different industries, career pathways and the skills needed to succeed in the workplace.

All students from years 7 to 11 attended during the day, giving them the chance to ask questions, discover new career ideas and learn more about the options available after school, including further education, apprenticeships and employment.

Organisations supporting the event included Exeter College, Gleeds, NHS Medical Imaging, the Ministry of Justice, Willmott Dixon, the Met Office, Vistry Group, Kier Group, the Royal Air Force, the British Army, Devon Youth Service, Devon County Council, the University of Plymouth, Next Steps South West, Puffins Childcare, Devon and Cornwall Police, Bicton College and Service Design Solutions.

Part of the Ted Wragg Trust, Isca Academy places a strong focus on helping students plan for life after school, with events like the careers fair giving them the chance to explore different pathways and feel informed about their future.

Marie Knights, Careers Leader at Isca Academy, said:

“We were proud of the way our students were ready to engage with employers and training providers about their futures. Our careers programme ensures our young people build the knowledge and skills needed to make positive choices in an ever-changing labour market. Working with businesses is essential to giving students these opportunities, and we are incredibly grateful to those that gave their time to work with us.”

Ben Hobbs, from the Ministry of Justice, said:

“The highlight for me was the chance to talk to students about the Civil Service and its broad range of responsibilities, as well as conversations with a few who were already thinking about careers in the Civil Service and political aspirations.”

Joseph Nicholls, from Exeter College, said:

“We thoroughly enjoyed chatting with all the year groups. We were impressed with the questions and conversations that were had across the board regarding careers and post-16.”