Careers Bulletin 30 January 2026
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Here is this week’s edition of the weekly Careers Bulletin; it will only be useful if students are proactive! Please take a look at the opportunities that are of interest to you. If you need any help, please pop into the Careers Office which is in the Business Block or simply drop me an email: ewooller@littleheath.org.uk
Events this Term
- 030126 – Y12 Parents Information Evening
- 190126 – Windsor Forrest Colleges Group – Assembly KS4
- 200126 – KPMG Assembly Presentation - Y12
- 210126 – Tigers Training Centre Workshop – Y12 Early Childhood Development
- 300126 – Staying Safe at Night & CPR Workshop delivered by Healthreach – Y12
- 020226 - Staying Safe at Night & CPR Workshop delivered by Healthreach – Y12
- 020226 – Reading College Assembly Presentation KS3
- 100226 – Apprenticeships Assembly – Hadddon Training KS4 & KS5 ( Teams)
- 110226 - Tigers Training Centre Workshop – Y12 Early Childhood Development
- 130226 – Ante Natal Workshop delivered by Healthreach - Y9 Child Development
- 260226 – Y12 English A Level Trip to Guardian Media – Workshop on “Opinion Writing”
Useful Information
Eclips
This is an excellent site with accurate information on over 1400 jobs including live labour market information and a wealth of impartial advice on education and employment choices, eCLIPS helps young people to make informed study and career decisions.
www.eclips-online.co.uk - Login using password: naisti27
Berkshire Opportunities https://www.berkshireopportunities.co.uk/employers-and-educators/opportunities-for-you-to-share/
Student Finance – Martin Lewis
The five things students need to know.
https://blog.moneysavingexpert.com/2025/09/five-student-need-to-knows/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR61KGBkvS3ccXcmQGniCe31MoRTEE9-gdQ3BGt8NXiGfyFJD1X_38vvP7lmgQ_aem_uEv1UD4IPEVMmNG99I-12w
Medics & Lawyers
The Medic Portal is a renowned resource for aspiring medical students, offering comprehensive preparation for UCAT, BMAT, and medical school interviews. It's recognized for its quality support and proven track record, having assisted thousands of applicants each year. With a wide array of courses, tutoring, and free resources, The Medic Portal is dedicated to helping students navigate the challenging journey of medical school admissions.
https://www.themedicportal.com/
The Lawyer Portal is a comprehensive resource for individuals considering a career in law. It offers a wide range of information and services, including guides on different pathways into the legal profession, workshops, and events like mock trials and summer schools. The portal is in partnership key legal institutions such as the Law Society, the Bar Council, and CILEx, and is supported by The University of Law. It's designed to assist aspiring legal professionals at every stage, from students to practicing lawyers, providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in the legal field.
https://www.thelawyerportal.com/
Employment
Higher & Degree Apprenticeships – January issue
Shoosmiths, Solicitor Apprenticeship Program
Step into the legal world with a six-year paid apprenticeship that leads to full qualification.
A real start in law. If you’re ready to begin your legal career but university doesn’t feel like the right fit, our solicitor apprenticeship offers a powerful alternative. Earn while you learn, gain experience in real legal teams, and qualify without the burden of tuition fees.
You’ll spend 80% of your time (four days a week) working alongside our expert lawyers, and 20% studying with our training provider, BPP University. From your very first day, you’ll be part of a law firm that values your voice, trusts you with real responsibility, and invests in your growth. Learn through action, grow through trust. Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll work in a variety of teams, gaining the technical knowledge, commercial skills and professional experience that define a modern solicitor.
You’ll start with an introduction to the business side of law, spending time with our business development directorate, before rotating through our core legal teams — commercial, corporate, litigation, banking & finance, and real estate. You’ll also explore specialist areas like intellectual property, construction, and employment, and may have the opportunity to complete a client secondment.
Your studies will include the subjects covered in a law degree — such as contract law, public law and land law — along with the practical modules that form part of the Solicitor Qualifying Examinations (SQE). You’ll build a portfolio of workplace evidence and prepare for the SQE to achieve full qualification.
You’ll have a dedicated line manager, a buddy to help you settle in, a student manager to monitor your progress, and a personal tutor from BPP to support your learning and portfolio development. All while you develop the skills that matter the most, like communication, collaboration, and commercial awareness. We’re looking for people who are curious, driven, and ready to make things happen. You’ll need strong academics — a minimum of 5 GCSEs (including english and maths) and ABB at A-Level — but we look at the whole person, not just grades. We value your attitude, resilience and potential to thrive in a collaborative environment.
At Shoosmiths, you’ll find a refreshing lack of hierarchy and a culture that celebrates individuality. You’ll work hard, be supported to grow, and take pride in contributing to a business that makes a difference.
We’re also proud to be a member of City Century, an award-winning solicitor apprenticeship initiative that helps recruit and develop the best future lawyers. If you’re still exploring your options, you can complete the free virtual work experience through City Century to get a taste of life as a solicitor apprentice.
Application process
Our recruitment process is designed to help you show your potential, not just your experience.
You’ll complete:
- an online application where you’ll tell us about your academics, experiences and motivation
- an online strengths-based assessment
- an in-person assessment centre, where we’ll explore how your values and behaviours align with ours
We assess each application holistically, looking at both your academics and your responses to our questions — because we know there’s more to being an excellent solicitor than grades alone.
Programme details
- Start date: September 2026
- Applications open: 4 December 2025
- Deadline: 15 February 2026
- Assessment centres: 8 April 2026
APPLY NOW - https://shoosmiths.grad.allhires.com/app/
Applications for Babcock’s 2026 Apprenticeship Programmes are open!
Whether you’re a school leaver, seeking a career change or ready to take your skills to the next level, Babcock apprenticeships are engineered with your future in mind. Spanning engineering, science, business and project management, each programme is designed to help you develop in-demand skills, gain industry-recognised qualifications and receive the support you need to thrive – during your apprenticeship and beyond.
This is your opportunity to gain a recognised qualification whilst getting paid and contributing to some of the UK’s most critical projects. From design through to decommissioning, your work as an apprentice will see you support products and services that are essential to national security and public infrastructure.
GXO: Degree Apprenticeships Opening Soon
Training Provider: Sheffield Hallam University
GXO is a world leader in providing cutting-edge logistics solutions for the world’s best companies.
The Supply Chain Degree Apprenticeship is 3.5 years and you will follow a structured development plan, learning the day-to-day fundamentals of a career in a world-leading logistics company. The course is the perfect opportunity to gain on-the-job, real-world experience across warehousing, e-commerce and returns management, in departments like Human Resources, Finance, and Health & Safety, amongst many others
https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com/employers/gxo-logistics/
Ibstock: Management Trainee Programmes
The Manufacturing Management Trainee Apprenticeship is a 4-year programme where you will undertake the Mineral Products Technician Apprenticeship at Level 5. In addition, you will complete a Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship. As a Management Trainee, you will have a base factory location but will also be expected to travel and stay at other sites within the Ibstock Group. This will give you the opportunity to work alongside qualified professionals, building your vocational skills while completing your academic qualifications
https://www.ibstock.co.uk/management-trainee-programmes?category=Early%20Careers
Nestle: Advanced, Higher and Degree Apprenticeships
Training Provider: depends on the role but includes Leeds Trinity University & Nottingham Trent Nestle apprenticeships offer a distinctive route to both education and career growth. They offer a range of programmes in Sales, Supply Chain, Digital Marketing and Confectionery (BSc) — from Level 3 to Degree Level 6. Each combines academic study with practical, on-the-job experience, allowing you to earn a salary while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.
Earn, learn, and grow — with real experience, in-demand skills, and no student debt!
https://www.nestle.co.uk/en-gb/jobs/nestle-academy/apprenticeships
VMO2: Various Apprenticeships
VMO2 apprenticeships give you the opportunity to become skilled in your role and combine on-the-job learning and academic study, where you’ll spend approximately 20% of your working hours completing learning with one of their training providers. At the end of the programme, you’ll receive a nationally recognised qualification.
https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com/employers/virgin-media-o2/
EDF: Apprenticeships
If you’re passionate about tackling climate change, these Apprenticeship programmes offer an exciting opportunity to build a rewarding career while contributing to a more sustainable energy future.
With a variety of impactful programmes available, including Engineering, Project Management, HR and Business, you’ll have the chance to shape your career path and make a real difference.
https://careers.edfenergy.com/apprenticeships
INSIGHT EVENTS & WORK EXPERIENCE
Insight Days for the Creative Industries in March
- Ever wondered how books are created, published, and brought to life? With Bloomsbury Publishing | Remote | 4 March | 10am-2pm | Ages 14-19 | Apply here by 13 February: https://finder.futuresforall.org/opportunity-detail/1702BAB3-441C-4A26-7E73-08DE581241D7
- Love Film, TV or Games? Turn it into a Career! With Into Film | Remote | 3 March | 10am-3pm | Ages 14-19 | Apply here by 10 February: https://finder.futuresforall.org/opportunity-detail/6FE3663A-9E83-47A0-E60E-08DE4F5A87BB
- Curious about traditional crafts? Step into the past – and the future! With Heritage Crafts | Remote | 5 March | 10am-2pm | Ages 14-19 | Apply here by 13 February: https://finder.futuresforall.org/opportunity-detail/FA859B65-ABD1-4B53-E60C-08DE4F5A87BB
- Step Inside the Music Industry – UK Music Insight Day! | Remote | 11 March | 10am-3pm | Ages 14-19 | Apply here by 13 February: https://finder.futuresforall.org/opportunity-detail/0A6C6A4F-7A63-46B9-49A8-08DE21167489
- Ever wondered what happens behind the curtain of the UK’s biggest theatres? With ATG Entertainment | Remote | 13 March | 10am-2pm | Apply here by 13 February: https://finder.futuresforall.org/opportunity-detail/0C6CAF54-0C08-42F9-78D6-08DE5743046D
KPMG – Virtual Mobility Event
Join us On Tuesday 10th February for KPMG’S Come as You Are Social Mobility Virtual Event, 4.30-5.30pm. You’ll hear from our people about breaking down barriers, building lifelong skills, and bringing their whole selves to work. Learn how we support colleagues from lower socio‑economic backgrounds to thrive. Please see attached
UKAEA – Virtual Work Experience Program
We are pleased to be able to offer Virtual Work Experience through Futures for All. Details of the placement, including a link to apply, are below.
- 10th – 12th March, 10am – 4pm, Age 16 – 19
- Remote placement – can be done from anywhere in the UK
- Application Deadline: 20 February
Link to apply: https://finder.futuresforall.org/opportunity-detail/0EF41042-30B5-4F8E-6FC1-08DE528B31AA
ICAEW Apprenticeships Explained webinar:
Students can join one of ICAEW’s upcoming webinars this February to get to grips with what an apprenticeship is, and how they can use the apprenticeship route to get started in a global career in chartered accountancy.
Students can join to learn:
- How ICAEW Apprenticeships can lead to becoming a chartered accountant through the ACA qualification.
- The types of roles and industries ICAEW Apprenticeships can unlock.
- How combining work and study can be a fast track to professional success.
- The key skills employers are looking for and how to use these to stand out.
- Top tips on where to find apprenticeship opportunities and how to ace the application process.
Apply here: https://link.sanctuarygraduates.co.uk/Depts/ICAEW/W/270126BERLHS
Benefits of an ICAEW Apprenticeship:
- An opportunity to go straight to work and earn whilst learning.
- Chance to gain real world experience.
- A step towards becoming a chartered accountant.
- Develop all the key skills that employers are looking for now and in the future.
Find out more and apply to apprenticeships here: https://link.sanctuarygraduates.co.uk/Depts/ICAEW/A/270126BERLHS
British Army Insight – Watch on Demand
If your young person is exploring their next steps after school or college or has mentioned the British Army as a possible option, we know how important it is to feel informed, reassured, and confident in how you support them.
That’s why we’d like to invite you to watch British Army Insights: A Guide for Parents & Guardians, now available on demand.
AstraZeneca: Year 12 Work Experience
A global pharmaceutical company with a major UK presence. AstraZeneca are transforming the future of healthcare by unlocking the power of what science can do – for people, society and the planet. The UK plays a key role within the global AstraZeneca network. It is home to
colleagues from across the full life sciences value chain. Everything they do is driven by science to transform healthcare and patient outcomes, while playing a purpose-led role in wider society.
Applications for their work experience open on 19th January. Locations are Cambridge, Macclesfield and Luton. Opportunities in UK Operations, Engineering, Global Commercial & Clinical Supply Chain, Molecules to Medicine – Chemistry, Supporting the Science, Chemical Engineering and Regulatory Affairs. https://careers.astrazeneca.com/early-talent
Careers in Sport: Careers Fairs
The careers fair dedicated to the sports and leisure industry. Careers in Sport LIVE 2026 is bringing the world of sports and leisure careers to life.
Whether you’re considering university or the world of work these events connect young people and professionals with the diverse opportunities behind every sports team, organisation and event. With 3 major events across the UK, you’ll get an inside look at the roles that drive professional sports clubs and their foundations. https://careers-in-sport-live.com/
YP: Law Insight Event
YP will be joined by global and national law firms (Slaughter and May, Browne Jacobson, University of Law, Farrer & Co and Charles Russell Speechlys) where you will be able to take part in workshops, interactive breakout rooms and panels and hear about the latest opportunities on offer, including work experience! https://young-professionals.uk/events/
TheatreCraft: Live and Virtual Events
TheatreCraft, the ultimate hub for discovering and pursuing offstage roles in theatre, host a FREE event which takes place every year in the West End. You can explore - A marketplace full of industry professionals, education providers and theatre suppliers– Practical workshops & talks which cover a vast range of disciplines– On-stage demonstrations of West End theatre shows– Backstage tours at the Royal Opera House and neighbouring theatres.
NEXT EVENT: TheatreCraft Online will take place on Thursday 13 February 2025. REGISTER NOW!
CBRE: Commercial Real Estate Virtual Work Experience
A risk-free way to experience work on the job with CBRE. Practice your skills with example tasks and build your confidence to ace your applications. In this programme, you'll learn sector knowledge, relationship management and communication skills that their employees use daily. This program provides a valuable resource for you to upskill in commercial real estate and explore a potential career with CBRE.
https://www.theforage.com/simulations/cbre/commercial-real-estate-2wj8
Pilot Careers Live: Heathrow Event
Book now to speak with leading airlines and flight schools! Pilot Careers Live gives you access to everything you need to know about a career as a professional pilot.
https://www.pilotcareernews.com/live/heathrow-april-2026/
Goldman Sachs: Virtual Work Experience
Experience the dynamic realm of Operations at Goldman Sachs through their immersive virtual job simulation programme. In this engaging two- task simulation, you'll step into the role of an operational analyst and explore the world of financial services, client interactions, and problem- solving within one of the world's most prestigious investment banks.
By participating in this virtual job simulation, you'll gain valuable insights into the multifaceted roles in Operations at Goldman Sachs.
https://www.theforage.com/simulations/goldman-sachs/operations-9vyc
College Information
Please see attached for all local college open days and contact details.
Basingstoke College of Technology – Apprenticeship Fair – 9th February 4.30pm – 7pm
Just a quick one to remind you about our upcoming apprenticeship fair on 9th February 16:30 - 19:00, if you could please spread the word and encourage students who you know are thinking about this route to attend. Students can register on our website here: https://www.bcot.ac.uk/news-and-events/2026/02/apprenticeship-recruitment-fair/
The Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair is the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about how apprenticeships work to attend and gain valuable insights. Employers to be confirmed shortly.
Activate Learning
We have upcoming sports taster sessions at Bracknell and Wokingham College on:
- 4 February
- 11 March
- 15 April
- 22 April
These are a great opportunity for students to experience the college environment, facilities, and course content first hand. There are also open events coming up that may be useful to share with students and families:
Reading College Open Event on 4 February
https://reading.activatelearning.ac.uk/events/detail/open-event/
Bracknell and Wokingham College Open Event on 11 February
https://bracknell.activatelearning.ac.uk/events/detail/bracknell-and-wokingham-college-february-open-event/
Universities
UCAS Discovery Exhibitions
Starting again in March, UCAS Discovery exhibitions bring together the experts to help you shortlist your options, all under one roof. Speak to UCAS experts to help you decide on your next steps. At a UCAS Discovery even you can find out about traditional degrees, apprenticeships, careers, and more.
Event dates for Spring 2026:
- London 23 – 24 March 2026, London Excel
- Farnborough 22 – 23 April 2026, Farnborough International Exhibition Centre
Durham University – Black Heritage Program (STEP)
Applications for our access programme Space to Explore Potential (STEP) are now open!
STEP offers a dedicated space for Year 12 Black heritage students to explore their own potential, as well as all that Durham has to offer as a university destination. Participating students work towards a guaranteed alternative offer from Durham if they apply through UCAS in Year 13 to study with us.
Students will join us for a five-day residential runs from Monday 3 August 2026 to Friday 7 August 2026. They'll also attend online events in the lead up to the five-day residential.
During the summer school, students get the chance to:
- Stay in one of our colleges
- Participate in academic taster sessions
- Explore extra-curricular activities
- Meet current Durham students.
Applications close on Friday 10 April 2026, and require parent/guardian/carer consent and teacher reference. As well as experiencing student life at Durham, successful students who apply in Year 13 to study an undergraduate course at Durham will receive a guaranteed alternative offer.
Learn more about the programme, eligibility criteria, and how to apply below:
Durham University: Futures in STEM
Futures in STEM is an academic and pastoral support programme, targeted at students who are aiming to pursue the study of chemistry, computer science, engineering, maths or physics at university. Student take part in a variety of online subject specific tutorials, mentoring, guest lectures and activities designed to prepare you for university study. You will experience what it is like to be a part of Durham University, with regular contact with tutors, mentors and academics from across the Faculty of Science. Futures in STEM will be a fun, encouraging and intellectually stimulating introduction to Durham University and studying at university.
https://futures-instem.webspace.durham.ac.uk/
Brighton University: Psychology Online Taster Session
Exploring psychology and mental health: nature, nurture, or both?
To what degree is our behaviour determined by nature (our genetics or biology) rather than our nurture (our environment, social circles, etc.)? Join Brighton academics to explore the influence that both can have on our lives, focusing on mental health conditions to help explain just what makes us who we are.
UCL: Biochemical Engineering Virtual Taster Lectures
Biochemical engineers turn scientific breakthroughs - such as vaccines, biofuels, and lab-grown foods - into large-scale realities. Their work tackles some of the world’s biggest health, environmental, and ethical challenges.
Join UCL Biochemical Engineering for their free online taster lectures to explore cutting-edge research, from lab-grown meat and next-generation vaccine manufacture to AI-driven drug design and advances in gene therapy.
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/engineering/biochemical-engineering-virtual-taster-lecture-series-2026
Reading University: Languages from Scratch - Beginners Languages Taster Day
Discover what it would be like to study Languages as a part of your degree! Suitable for Year 12 students. Boosting your Opportunities by Adding a Language to your University Studies
If you are set to study Business, Economics, English, History or Politics, consider including a language in your course! It’s a great way to diversify your skills and thus maximise your job opportunities, as well as opening the door to whole new worlds for you to explore! free online Application Guide is designed to guide students through every stage of the medical school application process, including UCAT, BMAT and the challenging medical school interview.
Summer Schools
The Debate Chamber: Economics Summer School
Designed for students studying Economics, this course deepens your understanding of the subject through real-world case studies, interactive simulations, and engaging discussions.
Whether you plan to study economics at university or want to see how it connects with fields like politics and social sciences, this Summer School provides a strong foundation for future studies and career ambitions.
In 2026, the Summer School will tackle key economic challenges, from sustainable development to crisis management, combining theoretical analysis with practical policy discussions. The emphasis throughout will be on active and critical engagement with the material, so come prepared to have your say!
https://debatechamber.com/project/economics-summer-school-in-person/
The Sutton Trust Summer Schools
We are delighted to announce that applications are now open for the Sutton Trust summer schools, delivered in partnership with thirteen leading UK universities.
In this email, you’ll find information about what the summer schools offer, the impact of attending, resources to help you promote the programmes, and the types of students we encourage to apply. For those familiar with our programme, we also include updates and changes for 2026 and guidance on where to direct students with questions.
Thank you in advance for your support spreading the word with your students. Students can apply here : https://ukss.suttontrust.com/ and find out more via our website: https://summerschools.suttontrust.com/
What are the summer school programmes?
The Sutton Trust Summer School programmes offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in university life. They will walk away with the confidence and skills needed to choose where to apply and what to study, be a competitive applicant wherever that is, and find support with a network of like-minded peers.
All costs including travel, accommodation, food and activities are covered by the Trust and our partners which means it is completely free of charge for students to attend.
On the programme, students will:
- Experience university life - spending up to a week at one of our partner universities attending lectures, living on campus, making friends, and taking part in social and academic activities.
- Explore their future subject - students can choose from over 40 different courses, from History to Engineering. With over 15 hours of teaching, they will get the chance to explore the subjects that they are passionate about. It will also look great on their university application, should they apply.
- Make new friends - they will meet with other students from similar backgrounds to them who share similar passions throughout their week at University.
- Access university application support - our Sutton Trust Online programme will provide expert and personalised support throughout the university and apprenticeship application process, so their Sutton Trust experience does not end in the summer.
- Students can apply here: https://ukss.suttontrust.com/
- Eligibility : https://summerschools.suttontrust.com/eligibility/
- Course Options : https://summerschools.suttontrust.com/browse-courses/
Applications are now open and the deadline is Thursday 5 March 2026 at midday*. We are unable
to accept any late submissions.
*Applications for a place at The University of Cambridge will close on Thursday 12 February 2026.
Bristol University - Virtual Summer School 2026
We're excited to announce that applications for our Virtual Summer School 2026 are now open! The Virtual Summer School is open to Year 12 students and offers many of the benefits of an in-person program but is accessed online, meaning students can access it from home or another place of study.
The three-day program comprises academic talks, social sessions, and information, advice and guidance to help you make informed choices about your future options in Higher Education. Student Ambassadors are on hand to answer questions about what it's like to study at Bristol.
Take a look at our website for further information and the link to the application form.
https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/outreach/post-16/virtual-summer-school/
Winchester Summer School
30th June - 2nd July 2026 – Please apply on the link below:
Outreach Summer School Programmes 2026
For students in Year 9 to Year 12 interested in STEM
Are you in Years 9-12? Interested in STEM and keen to explore university and life at Imperial? Applications for our free residential and non-residential summer programmes are now open.
Visit our Summer Schools webpage to learn more about the programmes, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
- Year 9 Girls Engineering Summer School: 4 - 7 August
- Year 10 Insights Summer School: 29 July - 1 August (Residential)
- Year 11 Online STEM Challenge: 23 - 26 June
- Year 12 Sutton Trust Summer School Week 1: 14 - 17 July (Residential)
- Year 12 Sutton Trust Summer School Week 2: 21 - 24 July (Residential)
- Year 12 Work Experience Programme: 29 June - 3 July
Applications close in March 2026. Please check individual programme web pages for specific closing dates.
For any queries email outreach.scienceactivities@imperial.ac.uk.