More than 250 Year 12 and Year 13 students attended an inspiring and informative careers session today led by Dale Willis from My First Great Job.

The presentation focused on helping students understand how to use LinkedIn effectively as they begin planning for their future careers. Students were shown how to create a professional LinkedIn profile and how the platform can be used to build networks, connect with employers, explore career pathways, and access opportunities such as apprenticeships, work experience placements and graduate careers.

Dale explained how LinkedIn can act as an online CV, allowing students to showcase their skills, experiences, achievements and interests in much greater depth than a traditional application. Students were also encouraged to think about their personal brand and how they present themselves professionally online.

Throughout the session, students received clear, practical advice on finding and connecting with professionals and making meaningful connections within industries that interest them. Many students left the presentation feeling confident enough to create their LinkedIn account or publish their very first post.

The session concluded with a short question-and-answer segment, where a smaller group of students took the opportunity to seek personalised advice and further guidance.

Dale described LinkedIn as "your go-to hub for connecting with businesses, employers and like-minded career groups" and demonstrated how students can use the platform to open doors to future opportunities.

The feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive, with many recognising the value of developing a professional online presence at an early stage in their careers journey.

"We would like to thank Dale Willis and My First Great Job for delivering such a valuable session and providing our students with practical tools that will support them as they prepare for university, apprenticeships and employment." Mrs J Ferguson, Head of Sixth Form.