Events this Term

• 200426 – Y9 Healthreach Child Development Workshops
• 220426 – Y12 & Y13 Economics students - Bank of England presentation
• 270426 – Y12 Apex Building Trip
• 280426 – Y7 Girls Computer Science Club Visit to Bayer Pharmaceuticals
• 070526- Y10 Post 16 Options Workshops
• 120526 – Y10 Post 16 Options Workshops
• 130526 – Y10 Post 16 Options Workshops
• 210526 – Y12 Psychology Workshops with Healthreach

Useful Information

eCLIPS

This is an excellent site with accurate information on over 1400 jobs, including live labour market information and a wealth of impartial advice on education and employment choices. eCLIPS helps young people to make informed study and career decisions.

Visit eCLIPS here: eCLIPS - Login using password: naisti27

 

Berkshire Opportunities

Find valuable resources, career insights, and essential information on Berkshire’s thriving economy here: Berkshire Opportunities - The Skills and Business Hub

 

Student Finance – Martin Lewis

The five things students need to know: Martin Lewis: Five Student Need to Knows

 

Medics & Lawyers

The Medic Portal is a renowned resource for aspiring medical students, offering comprehensive preparation for UCAT, BMAT, and medical school interviews. It's recognized for its quality support and proven track record, having assisted thousands of applicants each year. With a wide array of courses, tutoring, and free resources, The Medic Portal is dedicated to helping students navigate the challenging journey of medical school admissions.

Find out more here: Get Into Medicine | Trusted UCA & Interview Prep

The Lawyer Portal is a comprehensive resource for individuals considering a career in law. It offers a wide range of information and services, including guides on different pathways into the legal profession, workshops, and events like mock trials and summer schools. The portal is in partnership with key legal institutions such as the Law Society, the Bar Council, and CILEx, and is supported by The University of Law. It's designed to assist aspiring legal professionals at every stage, from students to practicing lawyers, providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in the legal field.

Find out more here: The Lawyer Portal | The Resource for Aspiring Legal Professionals

 

Employment

Higher & Degree Apprenticeships – May issue

Read the May issue here: Higher and Degree Listing - Amazing Apprenticeships

 

Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S): Degree Apprenticeships

The Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) Degree Apprenticeships offer a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience while studying towards a degree

You'll learn from industry experts and have access to specialist training. Currently offering Engineering Apprenticeships in Bristol focusing on various engineering disciplines and a Digital Technology Degree Apprenticeship also based in Bristol, this apprenticeship covers areas like software development and IT infrastructure.

Find out more here: Apprenticeships - Defence Equipment & Support

 

BAE: Degree Apprenticeships

From cutting edge technologies, world-leading defence platforms and complex engineering solutions, BAE offers opportunities in exciting disciplines including Aerospace Engineering, Management, Nuclear Engineering, Project Management, Software Engineering, Information & Technology, and Enterprise Architecture.

Register now here: Degree apprenticeships (Level 6) in the United Kingdom | BAE Systems Careers

 

NFU: Apprenticeship

As a Business Analyst Apprentice, you’ll play an important role in how change happens across the business. Business Analysts act as the link between people and technology teams. They help colleagues explain what isn’t working, explore what should happen instead, and translate those needs into clear, structured requirements that IT teams can build from. In simple terms, a Business Analyst listens, investigates, and helps shape solutions that make things better for customers and for the organisation.

Find out more here: Business Analyst Apprenticeship :: NFU Mutual Careers

 

The Royal Opera House: Apprenticeships – Level 3

Applications are now open for apprenticeships that begin in September, at the start of the 2026/2027 Season. New apprentices will join the Royal Opera House’s current cohort, receiving invaluable on-the-job experience in one of London’s leading theatres.

Find out more here: Open Apprenticeship Opportunities

 

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an engineering apprenticeship? An engineering apprenticeship allows you to gain hands-on engineering experience while studying towards an industry-recognised qualification.

These opportunities typically last two to five years, depending on the level, and you'll earn a salary for the duration of the programme.

Find out more here: Engineering apprenticeships in the UK: Levels, employers and salaries | Prospects.ac.uk

 

Insight Events & Work Experience

 

Discover a Future in Customer Service with the National Trust (Basildon Park)

Dates: 30 June – 2 July

Timings: 10am – 3pm,

Ages: 16 – 19

Location: RG8 9NR

Apply by: 5 June

 

The National Trust is Europe’s biggest conservation charity. This means the organisation looks after (and protects) the nature, beauty, and history across the UK.

This is a big job! So, there are over 1000 different roles at the Trust, that all play a part in completing this work. On this 3-day in-person programme at Basildon Park, you'll learn more about visitor experience roles and what it’s like to work at the National Trust.

Over the 3 days, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the team, explore roles, and get stuck in with activities including:

• Welcoming and directing visitors
• Serving customers
• Creating displays and sorting stock

Find more information and apply here: Future Finder - Futures For All

 

Unlock Your Future with Bayer UK - Lab Day Experience

Date: 21 July

Timings: 9am – 4pm,

Ages: 16 – 19

Location: RG2 6AD

Apply by: 21 May

Bayer UK, a leader in pharmaceuticals, consumer health and crop science, is hosting their final placement this academic year! You will get a unique insight into research careers in the Life Sciences and take part in practical lab activities.

• Explore the TAS2R38 gene, which is responsible for coding a taste receptor that means you can taste a bitter compound, and test your own DNA.
• Get a taster of university-level lab work.
• Gain an understanding of careers in research and the practical skills required to succeed.

Find more information and apply here: Future Finder - Futures For All

 

What is content marketing - and how do I get a job in it? With Formative Content

Dates: 6 - 8 July

Timings: 1-am – 3pm,

Ages: 16 – 19

Location: HP9 1QN (applicants can have up to an hour commute)

This is a hybrid placement, with a mixture of remote and in-person delivery.

Apply by: 21 May

Do you have what it takes to create content that jumps out from people's social feeds? Can you create videos and articles that draw audiences in and hold their attention? Or build a campaign that changes people's perceptions of a company?

This experience will teach you about all the different roles and skills needed in marketing. You will learn how our team creates videos, blogs and social media content, how we develop strategies that ensure our clients' messages are heard, and handle all the project management and commercial elements that go alongside.

If you're interested in creating cutting-edge content that influences how people think about brands, then this is the placement for you!

Please note that application deadlines for any of the above 3 placements may be brought forward if there is a high volume.

 

NHS Work Experience in May

Places are now available for the May intake of the free National NHS Virtual Work Experience programme, featuring Surgery and Dental Hygiene! Virtual work experiences have been accepted by the Medical Schools and Dental Schools Council as valuable alternatives to in-person shadowing, backed by the Health Education England Discovery report on the impact of virtual work placements.

This programme is brought to you by Birmingham Universities Hospitals Trust in collaboration with Medic Mentor, and it is completely free. Not only is this a reliable alternative to in-person shadowing, but it also plays a significant role in preparing students for their in-person work placements with structured teaching and opportunities to speak directly with healthcare professionals. In the past year, this programme has supported over 30,000 secondary school students to obtain free work experiences. The opportunity is open to any student across the UK from 14 years old and above.

To ensure your students don't miss this fantastic opportunity to gain valuable work experience, they need to register and attend our upcoming Get Into Medicine or Get Into Dentistry conference, granting them IMMEDIATE ACCESS to the Virtual Work Experience programmes.

These are the final Get Into Medicine and Get Into Dentistry conferences of the academic year, making this the last opportunity for students to secure access before the next cycle begins. Students and parents can register for free at these links:

For aspiring Doctors: FREE LIVE VIRTUAL Get Into Medicine conference dates:

Saturday 6th June from 9am - 1:30pm

Register here: Get Into Medicine Conference Sign Up - Medic Mentor

For aspiring Dentists: FREE LIVE VIRTUAL Get Into Dentistry conference date:

Sunday 31st May from 9am - 1:30pm

Register here: Get Into Dentistry Conference Sign Up – Dental Mentor

Crafted in collaboration with Birmingham Universities Hospitals Trust, this thoughtfully curated 6-month medical and 4-month dental programme provides a unique glimpse into the medical and dental fields. The e-learning format enables students to fulfil their placements at their own pace, covering ethics, procedures, broader team roles, and fostering direct dialogues with doctors and dentists. This virtual experience creates a strong foundation for students' future careers, not only enhancing their UCAS applications but also strategically preparing them for practical work experience opportunities.

Students can learn more about our Virtual Work Experience here: University Hospitals Birmingham Trust Virtual Work Experience - Medic Mentor

Taking part in the Virtual Work Experience will provide:

• Comprehensive Insights: The programme covers a range of specialities, providing a holistic understanding of medical and dental practices. Each month, a new focus area is introduced, allowing participants to delve into different aspects of the field.
• Flexible Participation: Tailored for students from years 10-13 the programme accommodates various schedules by being virtual. Participants have one month to complete each specialty, ensuring flexibility and ease of participation.
• Recognised Certification: Upon successful completion of all specialities, students will receive a certificate from Medic Mentor and UHB, validating their active participation to include in their UCAS and apprenticeships applications.

This month's spotlight is on Surgery (Medicine) and Dental Hygiene (Dentistry). It's a chance to get a firsthand look into the inner workings of the medical and dental fields, helping your students shape their career aspirations in their chosen path.

We are eager to welcome your students to our free work experience programme and support them in their journey toward a fulfilling career in medicine or dentistry.

 

The ABTT Theatre Show: Start Your Backstage Career

3–4 June, Alexandra Palace, London

The UK's leading technical theatre event, and it's completely free to attend. This year includes workshops, hands-on sessions from the ENO, Royal Ballet & Opera, and more — try skills you won't learn in a classroom. Education Alley with colleges, universities and training providers to help you explore your next steps. Careers Hub, CV reviews and career pathway advice.  ABTT Apprenticeship Network, a community for current, aspiring and graduated apprentices.

Coffee chats | candid insights from the people running the country's biggest stages. Find out more here: ABTT Theatre Show 2026 Registration

LIPA: Get Set Summer School

Applications are now open for the Theatre Design and Production pathways on LIPA's Get Set programme.

This free, three-day residential summer school (28-30 July) is open to those currently in Year 12 and offers a hands-on introduction to life at The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA).

Participants will take part in practical, skill-building sessions while gaining valuable insights into applying for future higher education training and preparing for interviews.

Find out more here: Get Set - Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts

 

KPMG Work Experience

Subject: Get Real Work Experience Online: Try KPMG’s Inside Audit Programme (Free & Virtual)

Looking to gain work experience you can complete from home? Inside Audit is KPMG’s free virtual work experience platform, designed to give you a real insight into what a career in Audit could look like.

Through a series of interactive activities, you’ll step into the role of an auditor and explore how teams help organisations stay on track, solve problems and make confident decisions. You’ll gain a clear understanding of audit, the skills involved, and how this career path could suit you.

What will you gain?

By completing Inside Audit, you will:

• Learn what audit is and why it’s important
• Try realistic workplace tasks and challenges
• Build key skills employers value (problem-solving, communication, teamwork)
• Explore careers in business, finance, and professional services
• Receive a completion certificate to add to your CV, personal statement, or applications

Why should you take part?

• Completely free and online – complete it anytime, anywhere
• No applications or grades required – open to all school students
• Real-world insight into Audit at a global professional services firm
• Build employability skills such as communication, critical thinking and teamwork
• Certificate of completion to boost your CV and future applications

You don’t need any prior knowledge of Audit – just curiosity and a willingness to learn. Get started today by clicking here: Inside Audit

This is a great way to explore your options, grow your confidence, and take your first step towards a future career – all from home.

College Information

Please see here for all local college open days and contact details: College Open Days

 

Universities

 

Food and Nutritional Sciences Summer School

30th June- 2nd July  - The University of Reading

This is an amazing opportunity for year 12 students looking for a non-clinical science path. There is a major shortage of graduates in the food industry at the moment, and the food industry are really trying to encourage students to go into food science to fill this skills shortage, so it is definitely an exciting field to be considering.

Do you enjoy science? Are you passionate about food? Ever wondered what it’s like to be a food scientist?

Join us at the University of Reading for an exciting 3-day residential summer school in Food and Nutritional Sciences, where you’ll get a real taste of life as a food scientist.

During the programme, you will:

• Work in our state-of-the-art pilot plant to create your own baked products
• Explore the science of nutrition and health
• Take part in hands-on sensory science activities
• Experience the role of a new product development scientist, working in teams to design your own innovative food product — think The Apprentice, but for food scientists!
• You’ll also gain insight into university life by spending two nights in en-suite accommodation on campus, just like a University of Reading student.

In addition, the summer school features exclusive talks from industry professionals and University of Reading graduates, giving you valuable insight into careers in food science and the diverse opportunities the field has to offer.

If this sounds like something you’d love to be part of, apply now by clicking the link and completing the application form here: The University of Reading Food and Nutritional Sciences Residential Summer School. We’ll be in touch by the end of May to let you know if you’ve secured a place.

Come and discover where a passion for food and science can take you!

Any questions please email f.m.lane@reading.ac.uk

 

Debate Chamber: Law Summer School

Perfect for students who are drawn to courtroom drama, big ethical questions, and the challenge of building and defending a case under pressure.

Want to know more about the Law Summer School? Click on the link to watch a 30-minute video, covering the course structure, the topics covered, and what you can expect: Debate Chamber Law Summer School - Introduction | Videos & Movies on Vimeo

 

Cambridge University: The United States of America at 250: Reflections on the Past, Present and Future of Independence

Friday 29 May 2026 - Ray Dolby Centre, Cambridge

Three distinguished panels of journalists, artists, politicians and academic experts will debate the meaning of the Declaration of Independence in its own historical moment; the effects of the Declaration and the American Revolution on the rest of the world; and the enduring significance of 1776 for the United States in the twenty-first century.

Given the turbulent political landscape of our current moment, distinguished guests will be asked to consider a key question:

"Does the Declaration of Independence still matter?"

Spaces are limited, so please register using the link ASAP

 

St Hugh's College Oxford: Essay Competitions

The St Hugh’s College Sixth Form Essay Competitions are a fantastic opportunity to explore a topic of interest in a particular subject in more depth – whether something you have studied at school has inspired you, or whether you are keen to broaden your horizons in a new academic discipline.

This year, they are running two essay competitions; one on History (Julia Wood History Essay Competition), and one on Classical Reception (Mary Renault Classical Reception Essay Competition).

 

Eileen Wooller
Careers Leader
ewooller@littleheath.org.uk