Careers Fair 2025: A Gateway to Future Pathways

(Pictured: Our Careers Leaders, Ms Lines and Ms Birch)

Hillview School hosted its much-anticipated annual careers fair, expertly organised by our Future Pathways team, led by Ms. Lines and Ms. Birch. This event served as a vital platform for students in Years 7 through 13, enabling them to explore a myriad of potential career trajectories while interacting with various companies and educational institutions.

The Future Pathways team, dedicated to providing comprehensive Careers Education Information Advice and Guidance (CEIAG), is crucial in preparing our students for life beyond school. Their commitment ensures that every student has access to essential information regarding educational and vocational opportunities. By facilitating meaningful discourse between students and representatives from various fields, the careers fair exemplified the school's aim to equip young individuals with the knowledge needed for informed decision-making about their futures.

Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to engage with representatives from a broad spectrum of industries, broadening their understanding of potential career options. Notable participants included Willmott Dixon, a leader in contracting and residential development; Event. Live, a global events management organisation; and Canterbury Christ Church University. Each representative brought unique insights into their respective fields, sharing firsthand experiences and answering questions from eager students.

In addition to large corporations, local businesses and academic institutions were also present, illustrating the importance of community engagement in fostering the next generation of professionals. Students had informative conversations with Pennard Vets, who highlighted the intricacies of a career in veterinary science, and MTW, which offers screening services in cancer and hematology. Such interactions exemplified the breadth of opportunities available to students and the importance of exploring varied career paths.

The presence of higher education institutions, including the University of Sheffield, the University of Hertfordshire, and MidKent College, reinforced the importance of continued education and specialised training. These institutions provided students with essential information on further studies, tuition fees, and programme offerings, facilitating a deeper understanding of the educational requirements for specific careers.

Another significant aspect of the fair was the inclusion of sectors directly linked to public service. Students engaged with representatives from Kent Police, the NHS's Maternity and Radiology departments, and Care at Home Services. Each representative shared valuable insights about working in public health, safety, and social services, emphasising the rewarding nature of these careers.

A unique highlight of the event was the participation of The View @ East Street, a satellite centre supporting students who thrive in smaller learning environments. Their dedication to personalised education and pastoral care resonated with many attendees, showcasing the importance of tailored support in academic and personal development.

Furthermore, the careers fair allowed students to learn about emerging professions. One is Clinical Coding, a vital function that transforms patient records into coded data for various uses within the healthcare system. Such insights into less conventional career paths encouraged students to explore fields that align with their interests and skills.

With a wide array of options presented, including opportunities in construction with Taylor Wimpey, sports management with Munchkin Sports, and opportunities within the UK Army, the careers fair exemplified Hillview's commitment to broadening horizons and fostering aspirations. Students left the fair with valuable resources and contacts that will aid them in mapping out their future paths.