National Careers Week 2026

Led by our Head of Careers, Jayne Cooke, Careers Week is a fantastic opportunity for students to explore future pathways, hear from professionals across a variety of industries and develop key skills for the world beyond school. It has also been a joy to welcome back members of the NGHS alumnae community, who generously returned to share their own experiences and careers with current students.

Alumnae talks

One of the highlights of the week was an inspiring alumnae panel held in the Squire Performing Arts Centre for students in Years 9, 10 and 12. We were delighted to welcome:

• Ally King (Class of 2016), Section Lead, Chemistry R&T at Rolls-Royce
• Miranda Ashby-Wood (Class of 2010), Head of Publishing at the British Institute of Radiology
• Nisha Korpal (Class of 2005), CEO at Paylink

The speakers reflected on their varied career journeys, encouraging students to embrace opportunities and pursue subjects they love. They spoke about the confidence gained during their time at NGHS and how this helped them shape their futures. Concluding the session, Nisha shared some powerful advice with students:

“Your career won’t be a straight line, it will be shaped by opportunities, lessons and experiences that you can’t predict. Stay curious, work hard and be open to new ideas — don’t be afraid to change direction.”

Year 11 students also benefitted from hearing from alumnae about their individual career paths. 

• Charlotte Whincup (Class of 2012), Director at Bloom Building Consultancy
• Caitlin Orr (Class of 2017), Trainee Solicitor at Eversheds Sutherland,

Charlotte spoke about her journey to becoming a Building Surveyor, from early work experience during her school years through to university and her current leadership role, while Caitlin shared how she changed direction after completing a Business degree, exploring law through a conversion course before beginning her legal career. Caitlin also spoke with students in Years 5 and 6, inspiring younger pupils with her story of exploring different possibilities.

Enterprise Day

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students in Year 8 enjoyed an exciting Enterprise Day led by Karen Kimura from the GDST. The day challenged students to develop entrepreneurial thinking while building valuable transferable skills such as teamwork, problem solving and presentation.

Working in groups, students created their own theme park concept. After deciding on their park’s theme, which ranged from thrill-seeking adventures to Netflix-inspired attractions and even an Australian-themed park, they moved on to creating a business plan, carefully considering finances to ensure their park would be both profitable and highly rated.

The teams then designed maps, built impressive 3D models using recycled materials, and produced marketing videos promoting the unique features of their parks. The day concluded with group presentations, where students explained their ideas and reflected on how they overcame challenges along the way.

Our judges, assistant head, Mrs Wharton-Howett, Head Girl Reya, and Lacey, a Year 13 student heading to university to study Business Management, were impressed by the creativity and professionalism on display. Awards were presented for:

• Best Business Plan: Aurelian Heights
  
• Best Marketing Video: Palms & Pouches
  
• Best 3D Model: Thrillmania
  
• Best Presentation: Dimensions
  
• Best Overall: Wonderland
  

Careers Fair

We welcomed 36 organisations and eight NGHS alumnae to our Careers Fair, creating a vibrant and inspiring environment for students to explore future opportunities.

The event brought together universities, employers, apprenticeship providers and former students, giving attendees the chance to ask questions, discover different career pathways and gain valuable insights into a wide range of industries. Interactive activities added to the experience, including the opportunity for students to try a real-world train-driving simulator.

Exhibitors commented on the curiosity, confidence and enthusiasm shown by NGHS students, who made the most of every conversation. 

CV and Interview Skills Workshops

To round off the week, students were able to take part in practical skills sessions designed to support their future applications.

Karen, from the GDST led a CV workshop, helping students understand how to tailor their CVs for different opportunities as the world of work continues to evolve.

Students in Year 10 also took part in an interview skills workshop to prepare for their upcoming Mock Interview Day. The session focused on how to approach common interview questions and how to present themselves confidently in a professional setting.

Mock Interview Day… coming soon

We look forward to welcoming employers into school, later this month, for Mock Interview Day, where Year 10 students will experience a mock interview with an employer, receive feedback, and attend further workshops to help prepare them for future applications.

Careers Week 2026 has been a fantastic opportunity for students across the school to explore possibilities, build confidence and develop the skills that will support them on their future journeys.

Click the links for more information about Senior school, Sixth Form and University & Careers advice at NGHS.