Warrington college Careers Week provides valuable employer engagement opportunities for students

Throughout the week, a wide range of organisations supported students in exploring career pathways, developing employability skills, and gaining insight into progression opportunities beyond college.

The week began with a strong focus on employability and progression. Representatives from Barlow’s delivered mock interviews, helping students build confidence and prepare for future recruitment processes. Students also heard from the Royal Air Force about the diverse range of careers available within the organisation, while Edge Hill University and Keele University delivered sessions exploring higher education opportunities and challenging common misconceptions surrounding university study. 

Meanwhile, T Level Construction Design, Surveying & Planning students took part in a presentation and mock interview session with Gleeds. As part of the partnership, four students will be selected to undertake an Industry Placement with the organisation, which is fantastic opportunity for them. Health & Social Care students also welcomed representatives from Hummingbird Home Care, who shared their own career journeys and experiences within the sector. 

Tuesday brought a varied programme of employer engagement activities. Hairdressing students heard from Elementum Hair, while Health & Social Care students took part in mock interviews with Right at Home to strengthen their employability skills. The University of Salford provided guidance on choosing and applying for university, while Serco delivered an informative session to business and accounting students covering interview techniques alongside a Q&A discussion.

Elsewhere, Art & Design students visited Yorkshire Sculpture Park to gain inspiration from one of the UK's leading centres for modern and contemporary sculpture, while Travel & Tourism students enjoyed an educational visit to Chester Zoo. Early Years students were also joined by representatives from Dunky’s Day Nursery, who delivered a guest speaker session, mock interviews, and a Q&A activity.

On Wednesday, Serco returned to the college to provide additional sessions for students across further curriculum areas. Hairdressing students benefited from industry-focused visits from Salon Services and Alan Howard, while EK Elites delivered mock interviews and practical skills workshops to sport students.

Students across college also attended sessions with Caring Connections and Cheshire Police, learning more about career opportunities within health, social care, and policing. Liverpool Hope University delivered guidance on choosing the right university course, while Travel & Tourism students took part in practical workshops led by SkyPeople. Hospitality & Catering students were joined by representatives from the Park Royal Hotel, who shared insight into careers across the sector. 

Thursday continued the focus on career development and progression, with Early Years students taking part in mock interviews and a Q&A session with Kids Planet, while Art & Design students attended a drawing workshop delivered by the Liverpool Empire Theatre. Students interested in construction careers heard from Balfour Beatty about the opportunities available within the organisation, while Futureworks, a local higher education provider, gave an insight into progression routes within the creative industries. Practical employability support was also on offer, with BMS Progress delivering workshops on CV writing and interview techniques, sharing valuable advice and expertise. In addition, We Change Lives gave interested students an overview of careers within the charity and support services sector. 

The week concluded on Friday with sessions from 247 Group and Warrington Borough Council. Students gained an understanding of careers within these organisations and received valuable guidance on personal branding, helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to present themselves professionally to future employers.

Warrington & Vale Royal College extends its sincere thanks to all the organisations and higher education partners who contributed to such a successful Careers Week. Their support provided students with valuable insight into a wide range of industries and career pathways, helping them make informed decisions about their future progression.