Empowering Ambition and Strategic Play
Ms Alyson Boustead – Careers Coordinator
March has been an exceptionally busy month for the Careers Department at St Bede’s. To celebrate both National Careers Week and International Women’s Day, our students have engaged with industry leaders, explored future pathways at iconic venues, and even tested their strategic mettle in a sixth form competition.
Inspiring Insights from Industry Leaders
We were privileged to welcome several powerful female speakers who shared their expertise and professional journeys. Helen Sheldon, Acoustic Engineer and Director at RBA Acoustics, provided a fascinating look into the world of sound engineering. We also drew on the incredible talent within our own parent community. Dr Miri Firth, Senior Lecturer at the University of Manchester, delivered an invaluable session on employability in the modern job market, while Dr Karen Cheng, Pharmaceutical Medicine Consultant, introduced students to the complex, international world of pharmacovigilance. We are incredibly grateful to our guests for giving up their time to inspire the next generation.
Exploring the Next Step: University and Apprenticeships
Our Lower Sixth students enjoyed an exciting morning at Old Trafford stadium for the University and Apprenticeship Search Fair. The event featured a huge variety of higher education establishments and apprenticeship providers. Beyond the stalls, students attended vital seminars on navigating student finance and the application process, leaving them well-equipped for their upcoming transitions.
Meanwhile, back on campus, we have officially launched one-to-one careers discussions with our Lower Fifth. These sessions are designed to spark early reflection on their educational journeys and ensure they feel supported as they begin looking toward their post-16 options.
Strategy, Skill, and Survival: The Traitors
In a bold departure from traditional workshops, 26 of our Sixth Formers took a “leap of faith” by participating in a two-week-long immersive game of The Traitors. Under the tagline “Nourishing your minds whilst betraying your friends,” the event blended academic challenges with healthy doses of general hilarity.
Beyond the fun, the game was a masterclass in employability skills. Students had to master the discipline of regular meetings, the art of persuasion, and the confidence to speak up under pressure. From strategic planning to showing grace and dignity during a “banishment,” the participants demonstrated remarkable character. It was a huge success, and we are already planning to make it an annual fixture!
📢 Get Involved: Share Your Story!
Our students benefit immensely from hearing real-world experiences. If you would like to inspire our students by talking about your career journey, industry, or “employability” tips, we would love to hear from you.
Whether it is taking part in Careers Day, a short assembly talk or a classroom Q&A or carousel, your insight makes a world of difference. Please contact Ms Boustead at aboustead@sbcm.co.uk to find out how you can get involved in our future events.