CAREERS: Speed networking is an instant hit

MORE than 130 Year 10 RGS students benefited from a speed networking careers event where they questioned employers about their role, industry and careers.

Split into groups, they were given just eight minutes to extract the information they wanted as they moved around a carousel of a wide range of representatives from sectors including architecture, engineering, the Forces and hospitality.

Organised by Bob Walker, RGS head of careers, together with Rachel Barber and her team from the North Yorkshire Business and Enterprise Partnership, it provided a fantastic opportunity to discover more about what various jobs and roles involve, find out how each of the companies go about recruiting employees, and pick up a few top tips on how to be successful.

Mr Walker said: “Students were given the opportunity to have meaningful encounters with employers to ask work-related questions and discover a great deal more the world of work, employability skills, career pathways, qualification routes and post-16 education.”

He praised students for thinking on their feet: “It helped them hone their research and interview skills and has certainly helped build their confidence and provided excellent preparation for their work experience later this year.

“It also opened their eyes to alternatives and the range of options and choices open to them on leaving school,” he said.

Companies and colleges taking part included:

Cummins

Grantley Hall

Harrogate and District Community Action

York College

WSP

The British Army

Chameleon Technology

SSA Architects

Harrogate College

University of Bradford

Bettys and Taylors

The Royal Air Force

Mr Walker added: “Our sincere thanks go out to all representatives and staff taking part and to NYBEP for helping to organise and excellent event for Year 10 students.”