In June/July 20204, the pilot of the Future Professionals Summer Schools programme was held at the behest of the Lord Mayor of the City of London.
The request was to deliver a unique summer school for passionate and ambitious young people aged 14-15 to develop the knowledge and skills to thrive in the professions of the future.
Working with local Islington schools and City of London Academies, the target was students who, through lack of relevant networks and connections, might otherwise have no access to or means to understand and experience what it would be like to work in professions in health, law, business, science and technology, policy, politics, and the creative industries.
Using the resources of City University and its vibrant learning community including expert faculty, leading practitioners and student role models, with funding from the City of London Corporation and several of the Livery Companies, the Future Professionals Summer School students were given a unique opportunity to explore the potential careers of today and tomorrow.
There were three Schools, each a week long, delivering a best practice mix of keynotes, small group exercises, competitions, and personal careers guidance and skills development, in cohorts of approximately 40 pupils per week. Attending the School allowed students to reflect on, discuss, and explore career pathways, working towards a Career Action Plan to support their next steps, and giving them a solid foundation to take on the challenges and opportunities of the professional world.
The Lord Mayor was thrilled with the success of the programme, and commented:
The program has proven to be an outstanding success. The collaborative spirit and commitment to nurturing the next generation of professionals is something we can all take pride in. Your efforts have not only provided immediate benefits to the young participants but have also made a lasting impact on our community and the City as a whole. Inspiring and informing the next generation in this manner ensures a brighter and more informed future for us all. I look forward to seeing the continued positive impact of the Future Professionals Summer School in the years to come.
Some comments from students who participated:
Career’s interview was a cool experience, never been asked so in depth on what I want to do.
Great activity of teaching us communication and networking and then practicing with professionals.
I enjoyed learning about the different types of sustainable jobs for the future.
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