PE Careers Activity Week

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: Reviewed by Lucy White

: Reviewed by Constantina Nichola

Our PE Careers Activity Week offered students a look into the professional world through a blend of expert guest speakers and independent research. Throughout the week, professionals from diverse industries shared their personal career journeys, offering candid advice on navigating the modern workplace. These sessions provided students with a deep dive into the specific skills, qualifications, and resilience required to thrive in various sectors.

A recurring theme from our speakers was the vital importance of work experience to build a competitive edge. Students were encouraged to develop “soft skills” that are universally valued by employers, including communication, teamwork, and digital literacy.

In the classroom, Key Stage 3 students explored a vast spectrum of sporting roles – from dance choreographers to stunt performers. This culminated in students showcasing their findings through creative posters and presentations on careers such as sports data analysis and journalism.

By highlighting pathways through university, apprenticeships, and vocational training, the week successfully broadened horizons and sparked a newfound curiosity in our students’ future aspirations.

A huge shout-out to our amazing PE Department for organising such an engaging and motivational week!

Year 10 ‘Big Interview Day’

A huge thank you to the 16 volunteers – including parents, trustees, and former students – who joined us on Friday 13th March for Year 10 Mock Interviews. Our students did a brilliant job putting their interview workshop skills into practice, discussing their CVs that were created in Unifrog, and navigating professional questions with confidence.

The feedback from our guests was incredibly positive; the high level of organisation from our students was noted. It was a joy to see such active participation from the year group.

Lunchtime Careers Talk

At lunchtime on Friday 13th, we were thrilled to host Sarah Riley, Head of Property Management at James Andrew Residential for an engaging careers session. Attendees gained an exclusive look into the day in the life of a Property Manager as Sarah shared firsthand experiences of managing multi-million pound portfolios.

It was a fantastic opportunity to hear the strategic leadership skills required for the modern workplace and practical advice for those looking to break into the industry.

Year 9 Trip to the University of Hertfordshire

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: Reviewed by Lucy White

: Reviewed by Constantina Nichola

On Monday, 26 of our Year 9 students visited Hertfordshire University for an immersive look into higher education. The day kicked off with an engaging presentation on the benefits of university life, followed by a creative “Design Your Own University” team-building session. Our students didn’t hold back on their vision, suggesting inspired ideas ranging from celebrity lecturers to butler services in the accommodation halls! The experience concluded with a guided tour of the campus and halls, led by inspiring Student Ambassadors who provided first hand insight into the academic and extracurricular opportunities available in a university setting.

Year 12 UCAS Exhibition Trip, London

On Tuesday, our Year 12 cohort visited the UCAS Discovery Exhibition at London’s ExCeL Centre. This event provided students with the opportunity to engage directly with representatives from hundreds of universities, apprenticeship providers, and student support services. It was a valuable experience that allowed them to investigate specific course modules, career prospects, and accommodation options.

Thank you to our wonderful Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Schillaci-Rowland! This trip wouldn’t have been possible without her hard work, and we are so grateful she provided our students with this fantastic experience.

Year 12 Careers Morning

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: Reviewed by Lucy White

: Reviewed by Constantina Nichola

On Wednesday, our Year 12 students participated in an engaging and insightful Careers Morning. We were incredibly fortunate to host 25 guest speakers who shared their professional journeys, offering a “day-in-the-life” look at their roles and the various pathways into their industries. Each session concluded with an interactive Q&A, allowing students to dive deeper into their specific interests.

The event featured a diverse range of sectors, with representatives from organisations such as Deloitte, the NHS, Attend2Health, Hanbury Manor, GSMA, Christie’s, Insight MCL and the Home Office. Students tailored their experience by signing up for talks that aligned with their aspirations, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive – our Year 12s found the morning both enjoyable and highly informative.

A huge thank you to our wonderful volunteer speakers!

Year 8 Work Shadowing Day

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: Reviewed by Lucy White

: Reviewed by Constantina Nichola

On Wednesday, our Year 8 students participated in our annual Work Shadowing Day. We trust this glimpse into the professional world provided a valuable learning experience, helping students connect their classroom skills to their future ambitions and inspiring their career paths.

Student comments :

Yesterday, I went to my old primary school (St Joseph’s RC Primary School, North Road, Hertford). Until midday, I helped out in nursery and played with the children and had to run errands such as going to the printer room. After midday, I helped in reception and watched a teacher teach a maths lesson. I also played with them during choosing time, read with a few children and went to another classroom to pick up something.

Overall, I learned how to teach the younger years at school and the challenges and joys of being a primary school teacher.

Isabella Brown

For my work shadowing I went to a pottery shop in Hertford called Manic Ceramics. I helped with creating pottery and setting the table for the children’s art club. I learnt that running a small business is a lot more work than you think. You have to be prepared for anything to go wrong.

Molly Ling

Today I worked with my dad in his office, he works for Higgins Enterprise and is a project manager. My dad did an amazing job in involving me in everything he did today and set me tasks through out the day to re-enforce my knowledge of this career. I joined in on my dad’s first meeting of the day and was instructed to take minutes and actions from the meeting, I also did some of the cyber safety mandatory learning that covered many things including how to be a human fire wall and how to identify phishing attacks. In the afternoon my dad showed me how to create a project plan until I was able to make one by myself on Excel, I worked on my project plan for the rest of the afternoon and sat in on a couple more meetings. I really enjoyed today and I think I have learnt some very valuable skills that I can apply to any career I choose.

Tabitha Higgins

I started off the day by choosing out my most smart outfit, a shirt and some trousers, I did not wear any jewellery as I was going to shadow in a dental surgery, and I figured it wouldn’t be sterile. When I got there, I introduced myself, and why I was there. My dad works at Hertford Dental Care, and I already knew a lot of the staff members and was very happy to be in an environment that I was familiar with. I was instructed to go and sit in the waiting room before the person I was shadowing had finished her first check-up (Pamela), I was later told I could go and sit in the staff room for a while, and Marcia (my dad’s nurse – in the context that she assists him during his day to day work) made me a tea. Later I went up to the room that I was going to be shadowing in. There were a lot of check-ups for the first hour, and two cracked teeth, which I was interested to see be filled and there was later a filling and Marcia showed me the crown that was going to be fitted in a man’s mouth. She showed me the dental cement and showed me how it was mixed and used, she took me in to see Ishi a little later (around 12:45) and she was doing some aesthetic work, she explained that some people may not want me to watch the procedure, which I was fine with. The first person to come in was having Botox, and after Ishi had finished off she explained how it worked to smooth out fine lines, later there was a lady who came in for fillers, which Ishi explained to be hyaluronic acid and another chemical that strengthened and encouraged the production of collagen. I was asked whether I was okay with needles prior to this, and I am glad that I am okay with needles because I can’t see squeamish people faring well!

I spent the lunch break with Marcia and later returned to room 3 with Pamela for a few check-ups before my dad came to get me. Overall, I think it was a great experience, and I had loads of fun! I want to thank all of the teachers involved in organising it because it was very insightful and I am very thankful for the experience!

Summer Tredgett-Brady

Today was a work shadowing day.
I went to my mum’s school (because she is a TA). I did some cutting and gluing for a students book and I laminated some things so we could put them up on the wall. I also helped some children with a little maths game where they had to put a certain amount of chicks in the bowls and then add them up at the end. I participated in their phonics lesson where we did some sounding out of some animals names.
When it was lunch time I cleaned the tables and I helped open some things for the children. After we all went outside and I helped the children to put there coats on. When we were outside it started to rain so I helped get everyone in. When it was choosing time (when they get to play with the things in the classroom) I showed them how to build the train track. Once everyone gone to sit on the carpet I tided up the class room because it was a mess.
When it was home time I helped everyone get their bags and coats. Then I set up all the tables for the next day.

I just want to say that today was really fun.
Isla Hosier-Wood

Today was an amazing experience to learn different skills and be a good representation of Presdales school. I had 3 separate meetings with some of my parent’s colleagues, each of them explaining a bit about who they are, what their role is in the company, and what they do in their occupation. This event helped me to develop my oracy, as I had to ask a lot of questions as well as listen and understand what people were saying. I found the day very intriguing and enjoyable!
Annabel Mutch

Today I went to work with my mum. She works for the I.E.T (Institution of Engineering and Technology) as a Member and Customer Concierge. Throughout the day, she has to answer calls, open post and respond to emails. When we arrived, we sat at the front desk and my mum logged into all of her websites she has to use throughout her shift. I met many of her colleagues in between her explaining to me each thing she does and why she does them. I was taken on a tour of the building and showed each room and was told what it was used for. I talked to workers at the company about what GCSEs I might like to do and if I have any ideas for the future. I tried my hardest to be confident and polite and I liked it because everyone was really friendly to me.

Maisy Woolgar

In the morning we put the right machinery in the van and was given a health and safety brief, I was told to stay away from all machinery when in use and to wear the correct PPE. Then I went with my dad and did grounds maintenance on a private estate. I was taught how to plant some beech shrubs and how a zero turn ride on mower is used. Lastly we stopped for lunch and it started to rain so I went home. I had lots of fun.
Lola Eyre

Today I went to Hertford Heath Primary and Nursery School for my work shadowing day. I shadowed my mum and we went round nearly every class in the school. I really enjoyed helping all the children and the teachers. I preferred working in KS2 rather than the lower years because they were less chaotic. I had a really good time meeting all of my old teachers and I can’t wait to see them again.

Tilly Murton

I really enjoyed work shadowing day today because I got to see the different aspects and departments of one business and what everyone’s role means. I learnt about office managers, site managers, content and digital marketing manager, the procurement team, the construction workers and so much more. I really enjoyed doing filming and editing for social media with the content and digital marketing manager as I learnt how to use more apps and software’s as well as what they do and how they are helpful. I also edited and created my own banners, posters and videos with guidance.
Melisa Demetriou

For my work shadowing day I went to my dads work where he is a manager for Silent Sentinel, a company under Motorola. At the start of the day I greeted people and they were very friendly to me as they have seen me before. After that, I looked at my dads desk and looked at his workspace. I took a look around the building myself while being very cautious because some stuff I can’t go near because they are dangerous and could potentially injure me. As the day went by I looked at how people worked together and I could tell that some enjoy the work that they do. To sum it up, my day was wonderful and I wish to have great chemistry in a workplace as they do at my dads work.
Angelique Espina

I went to my coffee shop. I really enjoyed it today as I learnt a lot of new things and got an idea of what I might want to do in the future. I enjoyed taking orders and making coffees and all the staff and customers were really nice. I didn’t really like restocking and clearing up tables but it was still nice.
Eliza Shahaj

First, I went to Heath Mount schools pre prep where I spent the morning with the Y1’s and Y2’s doing lessons such as maths, music and phonics. As these children are quite young, I saw that the teachers’ teaching methods were very different from my teachers as in they have to explain things in more detail and have to keep the children they are teaching as entertained as possible to keep them focused and concentrated! In the afternoon I headed over to lower school which teaches year groups 3-4. I was in a maths lesson, a drama lesson and a geography lesson. In lower school as the children get older they are expected to work more independently, for instance in geography they needed to create a fact file about an endangered animal, they were given ipads and were able to search up facts about their chosen animal!

Overall I really enjoyed my experience work shadowing at Heath Mount and this experience furthered my interest in working in education.

Ella Cooper

I didn’t really want to go to the hospital for my work experience day – I would have much preferred going with my dad to his engineering company, but I’m still too young for that. I felt a bit anxious before I went because I didn’t know what to expect.
However, it actually turned out much better than I thought. I met some really nice people and got shown around different areas, including outpatients. I also spent a few hours on Willow Ward, which was interesting to see.
I even managed to sneak in a bit of homework and some gaming time during the quieter moments!
Overall, it was a good and productive day at Barnet Hospital… although it’s probably not something I’d choose to do again anytime soon.

Ellie Murphy

Today I was working with my mum who is a website designer. I enjoyed helping her with tasks and seeing her office for the first time as well as meeting the people she works with, I learnt office skills like scanning, using a shredder, handling video equipment safely and learning about websites. Although some tasks were repetitive it gave me a good understanding of working in an office. Today has made me realise that when I’m older I would love to work in a coworking space with others on different career paths. I met an estate agent, interior designer, fashion designer and a office manager. I had a very enjoyable day!
Aria Sparkes

Today I went to my mother’s work, I helped her with her preparation for her meeting. And I also had a tour around her building site and I met all of her colleagues and introduced myself. It was very fun!

Carrie Clarke

I went to my dads workplace at the police station and saw his locker room as well as his team room. We then headed down to see the police dogs. I saw 4 dogs and was able to pet about 3 of them. One of them sniffed out an explosive sent which is used in bombs. Then, we went to see the control room and we saw all of the cameras everywhere in that room. It was very cool. Finally, we saw the custody area where I saw empty cells and what it might feel like to be in a cell. I also saw how my dad does his training by bashing fake doors open. We went home on the train.
Emma John

Presdales Alumni Return to the Art Department to Inspire Sixth Form Students

We were absolutely delighted to welcome back two former Presdales students this month, who returned to share their experiences and inspire our A Level students with their exciting journeys beyond school.

Guest Speaker: From Presdales to the Olympics!

We were thrilled to host former student Amy Pozzilli, who spoke about her incredible career since leaving Presdales. Amy has built an exciting path in the television industry, contributing to major productions such as Portrait Artist of the Year, Britain’s Got Talent, coverage of the UEFA Champions League, and the Chelsea Flower Show, among many others.

Combining her artistic talent with her professional work, Amy now specialises in live painting at major sporting events — most recently at the Winter Olympic Games! Her talk was inspiring, engaging, and full of energy, giving students a fantastic insight into the wide range of opportunities within the creative industries.

Former Pupil Returns to Share University Insights

We were equally excited to welcome back Adelaide Peart, who spoke to our Year 12 and 13 students about her experiences studying architecture at the University of Bath.

Adelaide delivered an engaging and informative talk, offering a real and honest insight into university life. She shared invaluable advice on accommodation, what to bring, and how to make the most of Freshers’ Week, which was greatly appreciated by students preparing for their next steps.

A real highlight of her visit was showcasing her impressive architecture portfolio. Her creative and innovative designs, developed using tools such as AutoCAD and Adobe Photoshop, truly inspired students and gave them a glimpse into the possibilities within architectural study. Adelaide is also currently gaining further experience through work placements in the field, continuing to build her professional skills.

We are incredibly proud of both Amy and Adelaide for their achievements and so grateful that they took the time to return to Presdales to motivate and support our students. We look forward to welcoming them back again soon!

A massive thank you to Mrs Page and the Art Department for putting together these fantastic talks! We always love seeing our alumni return to inspire the next generation.

Virtual Work Experience

Lloyds Banking Group

Monday 30th March or Tuesday 7th April : 10am – 2pm (Choose one session only)

For Students interested in Banking, Business, and Finance

Are you ready to take your first step into the world of banking and finance this Easter Break? Whether you’re considering apprenticeships, work experience, internships or graduate schemes—this session is your launchpad.

Lloyds Banking Group is a world-renowned commercial, personal, and investment banking management firm and the UK’s biggest Bank. LBG has over 30 million customers and around 60,000 employees globally and is a FTSE 100 company. Under the Lloyds Banking Group business, they also own Halifax and Bank of Scotland, as well as other financial institutions such as Scottish Widows.

What to expect:

We’ll show you an introduction to LBG
How to evolve your presentation skills
Take part in business-related challenges
Commercial awareness and building essential skills workshops
Learn about banking, finance, and digital technology
Learn about a SWOT analysis and putting it into practice

Your future starts now. Let’s unlock it—together.

Event Details:

Date: Monday, 30th March or Tuesday, 7th April – please choose one session only
Time: 10am – 2pm
For: Students at school and University
Location: (Zoom link provided upon registration)

Application Link:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LBG_VWEX_MAR

Virtual Event

Insight into PwC

PwC Flying Start Business Management

Tuesday 31st March : 5pm – 6pm

For Year 13 Students

We have an exciting virtual event coming up with one of the world’s biggest professional services firms, PwC.

Are you ready to gain new skills that jump-start your career? Over this one-hour session, you’ll gain exposure to PwC and their flagship Flying Start Business Management Programmes! You’ll earn a degree from a top university, guaranteed placements at PwC across your studies, and a job offer once you have graduated! It’s a fantastic fast track to a career at PwC.

If you are curious about business, passionate about solving problems, and ambitious, then this session is for you.

What to Expect

⁠Learn about PwC’s Flying Start Business Management, and gain a head start into professional services
The Business Management Flying Start programme, you’ll step into a full-time role within the Operate business in Belfast.
You’ll also engage in structured study sessions with Ulster University Business School, organised in eight-week learning blocks. This approach lets you blend academic insights with practical business experience, setting a strong foundation for your future.
Hear from professionals and ambassadors about their experiences and career journeys
PwC offers a Flying Start Business Management degree programme based at Ulster University Business School.
You’ll be paid a highly competitive salary of £27,800 per annum from day one.
Your tuition fees are fully funded for the degree programme.

Why Attend?

PwC is one of the Big Four professional services firms, supporting businesses across audit, tax, consulting, and technology. Their programmes offer a unique pathway into the industry, allowing you to earn while learning via paid internships and gaining real-world experience at a globally recognised firm.

This event will inspire and empower the next generation of professionals by providing valuable career insights, networking opportunities, and practical guidance on the next steps in your business and accounting career journey.

Apply via the link below to secure your place.

Click here to sign up now!

Best regards,

Dan | On behalf of PwC

Founder Young Professionals and CEO
W: young-professionals.uk
Instagram: @youngprouk