Real Insights, Real Experiences: Exploring Future Pathways

On  26 June, we welcomed back recent alumni to support Year 12s in a engaging Higher Education Day, designed to help them begin mapping out their next steps beyond school.

Year 12s had the chance to explore university options, gain practical advice on the UCAS process, and hear first-hand from those who have recently navigated the transition themselves.

Recent alumni generously gave their time and shared insights from universities across the UK, Europe and the United States and offered advice on courses, pathways and the realities of student life. We are hugely grateful to them for giving students the confidence to explore the wide variety of pathways open to them.

Earlier in the morning, we were thrilled to off recent alumni a future-focused panel session for them, featuring an outstanding line-up of speakers from a range of professional backgrounds, including:

• Claudine McMahon, Global Head of Talent Development at Barclays
• Sophie Seeger, Executive Coach
• Ben Terrett CBE, CEO of Public Digital and Chair of Art UK.

The panel shared practical insights into early careers, personal development and the evolving world of work. A recurring theme was the importance of staying curious and agile, embracing change and being open to new opportunities as careers develop in unexpected ways.

They also offered invaluable advice on navigating the application process. Alumni learned more about how AI is increasingly used in screening applications and interviews, making it more important than ever to stand out authentically. The panel encouraged alumni to thoroughly research the organisations they apply to — understanding their values, strategies and the people interviewing them — so they can anticipate questions and approach interviews with confidence.

Students were reminded of the importance of adding personality to their applications. “You can spot something written by AI a mile off,” the panel noted, encouraging students to ensure their individuality and voice come through clearly. Reassuringly, they also emphasised that it is completely fine not to have everything figured out. What matters is being able to tell the story behind your decisions, helping others understand your interests, motivations and potential.

When it comes to interviews, the advice was simple but powerful: identify three or four key stories about yourself and know them well. These should reflect your strengths, experiences and growth, giving you a strong foundation to answer a wide range of questions.

The panel also urged students to seek out organisations whose values align with their own, highlighting how valuable this can be to support the direction you go in. And Ben Terrett introduced the idea of “learning versus earning”, encouraging alumni to view roles as opportunities to explore, build skills and gain experience. Trying something for a set period can be a valuable way to discover interests and develop professionally.

The interactive session prompted thoughtful questions and discussion, giving alumni the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers and gain meaningful, practical advice.

The day concluded with a relaxed lunch, where alumni enjoyed catching up with one another and reconnecting with teachers.

Higher Education Day once again proved to be an important and inspiring milestone for both Year 12 students and our alumni volunteers — a huge thank you to everyone who so generously gave their time and insight.