We are thrilled to report that the OB Club Careers Fair was once again a resounding success. Now in its fifteenth year, the event is always popular, however, due to the global pandemic, this year, a physical event was not going to be possible, so we had to rethink things. After exploring many different scenarios, we decided to make it a virtual, all-inclusive affair and extend the invitation across the other Harpur Trust schools, other local schools, as well as recent leavers.
Our aim was to ensure that participants still had the opportunity to explore a variety of career options. To allow us to achieve this and accommodate representatives from a range of careers, we split the event over three dates, with three half-hour-long sessions per evening. That meant that attendees could find out about nine different careers of their choice over the course of the event. Each of the three evenings offered the boys and girls a wonderful opportunity to talk to Old Bedfordians, parents and friends of the school about their careers, and to start to make useful contacts in their chosen areas of interest.
In total, we had over 1200 bookings from participants across the 56 sessions – making it our largest ever Careers Fair! With 28 careers represented, from Lawyers and Doctors to Engineers, Investment Bankers and Scientific Researchers, and many more, horizons were broadened.
“This year’s Careers Fair was a great opportunity to learn about many different professions. It was very useful and interesting and gave me lots to think about!”
“We are extremely grateful to everyone who gave up their time to support this event. As always, this was a great opportunity which allowed the students (and young OBs) to explore a host of different professions and ask questions to help shape their career journeys in an informed way.”
“We are extremely grateful to everyone who gave up their time to support this event. As always, this was a great opportunity which allowed the students (and young OBs) to explore a host of different professions and ask questions to help shape their career journeys in an informed way.” Gina Worboys – OB Club Assistant Director
The career representatives were very impressed with both the participants and the new virtual format this year, and we’ve received some excellent positive feedback.
“I enjoyed the Careers Fair and was impressed with the engagement of those involved. The 30- minute sessions seemed to fly by, which would suggest that the time was well used.”
If you were unable to make it this year but are interested in getting involved, please do contact us at the OB Club (obclub@bedfordschool.org.uk) and help inspire young people who might be considering your profession.