A busy Autumn Term for the Careers Department

Inspiring Career Journeys: Learning from Real-World Success 

A cornerstone of this term’s careers programme was the inspirational stories shared by former students and professionals, which demonstrated the power of perseverance and ambition. Early in the year, former student Joe Mitton returned to share his journey from struggling academically to building a thriving fitness brand, MittFit. Speaking to over 100 students, Joe emphasised the importance of resilience, learning from failure, and seeking mentorship. His story resonated deeply, igniting ambition in the audience. 

Similarly, alumnus George Hannah revisited Long Road to discuss his recent success in securing a solicitor degree apprenticeship at Lewis Silkin. George candidly shared his experience navigating competitive application processes and offered advice to students pursuing apprenticeships. His return exemplified the transformative potential of Long Road’s support and guidance. 

Hands-On Learning: Bridging Theory and Practice 

Long Road’s careers programme excelled at blending classroom learning with practical application, often through immersive challenges and workshops. The Ramboll Engineering Challenge epitomised this approach, offering students a four-week exploration of structural engineering principles. From an initial visit to the University of Cambridge’s Department of Engineering, where students built and tested kit cars, to designing and constructing cardboard bridges, participants gained invaluable insights into engineering processes. The challenge culminated in a dynamic finale where the bridges were tested for strength under heavy loads, providing a tangible sense of accomplishment. 

Marketing students experienced a similarly practical journey through the Sookio Marketing Challenge, led by industry expert Sue Keogh and supported by Long Road alumni. Over four weeks, participants explored branding, social media strategies, and market research. The programme concluded with students designing and presenting original brand concepts for shower gels, showcasing their creativity and strategic thinking. 

The college’s Health and Social Care students also benefited from interactive learning. Workshops led by professionals from the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Integrated Care System introduced students to diverse career pathways within the sector. Group activities and discussions helped participants understand the practical applications of their studies and gave them a deeper understanding of the range of roles available in the field. 

Criminology students were equally engaged during a visit from Professor Ross Bartels of the University of Lincoln, which hosted a session on criminal profiling. Students explored the psychological techniques used to understand criminal behaviour, gaining insights into how offenders are identified and studied. This dynamic session showcased potential career pathways in criminology and psychology while encouraging critical thinking and engagement with real-world challenges. 

 

Exploring Opportunities: Direct Access to Employers 

A defining feature of the careers programme was its focus on connecting students with employers. Events like the annual Careers Fair brought together 26 employers from industries ranging from healthcare and law to engineering and aviation. With over 1,300 student visits, the fair was a resounding success, enabling students to discover new career pathways, network with professionals, and gain clarity on their future options. 

Employer-led workshops were another highlight, offering students personalised guidance and insight. For instance, the Degree Apprenticeships Preparation Programme featured guest speakers from leading organisations like HSBC and Grant Thornton, who demystified the competitive application process. A standout session featured Cara Chapatarongo, a Civil Engineering Degree Apprentice from Murphy working on high-profile infrastructure projects, whose firsthand experiences inspired aspiring apprentices. 

Throughout the year, employers also participated in specialised challenges and projects. The Tech Futures Day, organised by Form the Future CIC and Cambridge Wireless Ltd., connected students with tech leaders like ARM and Cambridge Consultants, offering exposure to cutting-edge innovations and career pathways in technology. 

 

 

Sustainability and Inclusivity in Careers 

Recognising the importance of sustainability and inclusivity, Long Road integrated these themes into its careers programme. During Green Careers Week, students engaged with sustainability topics through an interactive challenge designed in partnership with Stickerbook, a Cambridge-based social enterprise. Top-performing students from Long Road and our MAT partner The Sixth Form, Colchester, earned the chance to visit the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership in 2025, where they will explore the ultra-sustainable Entopia Building and meet professionals leading green initiatives. 

Inclusivity was a central focus of the Ramboll Engineering Challenge, which encouraged diverse participation in STEM. Female students excelled during the challenge, breaking stereotypes and highlighting the college’s commitment to fostering equity in traditionally male-dominated fields. 

Preparing for the Future: Skills for Success 

Beyond industry connections and hands-on learning, Long Road placed significant emphasis on equipping students with essential skills for the future. Sharon Livermore MBE of Kameo Recruitment provided a workshop on CV writing, interview techniques, and application processes. These sessions helped students navigate the complexities of recruitment while instilling confidence in their abilities. 

The programme also addressed career-specific preparations. For example, a session with Anglia Ruskin University introduced students to degree pathways in primary education, exploring topics like Qualified Teacher Status and classroom placements. Similarly, Health and Social Care students benefited from a talk on advocacy by POhWER representative Zaneta Ezeigbo, who explained the critical role of advocates in supporting vulnerable individuals. 

 

A Term of Growth and Achievement 

Long Road Sixth Form College’s careers programme in the Autumn term of 2024 was a testament to our commitment to student success. By combining inspirational stories, practical challenges, direct employer engagement, and a focus on sustainability and inclusivity, the college created a dynamic platform for students’ personal and professional growth. 

As students explored their potential and expanded their horizons, they were guided by a dedicated team of educators, alumni, and industry professionals. This collaborative effort has not only prepared them for the next stage of their lives, but also helped bridge the gap between curriculum and careers. 

 

Long Road’s careers programme continues to be a beacon of innovation and opportunity, equipping students to thrive in an ever-evolving world.  There is more to come in the Spring and Summer Terms 2025!