STUDENTS in Year 8 at Kingsmead School in Wiveliscombe have been wising up to the world of work with a Careers Day.

Half the year group spent the day in 30-minute taster sessions, each one focusing on a different industry, to give the students an overview of the sorts of careers on offer in that sector and what sort of person they would suit. Industries covered included banking, business, law, sport, acting, the Navy/Marines and transport.

Student Jago Yelland said: “My favourite session was probably law. A lawyer spoke about her experiences and remarkable cases. She said what it’s like to be a lawyer. It was very interesting.”

Student Hanna Jarvis said: “I enjoyed the Royal Navy presentation the most because it explained what you do in the Navy and Marines, the different jobs available, the job earnings and what qualifications are needed to join. Throughout the presentation I was re-thinking what I wanted to be when I was older.”

The other half of the year group took part in an all-day ‘STEM Challenge’ (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) workshop. The students, working in small groups, had to design and make a rocket which could be fired across the dining hall while holding an egg. The aim was to ensure the rocket travelled the furthest possible distance without breaking its fragile cargo.

The challenge taught students about the design process, materials, aerodynamics and teamwork skills. The winning team was made up of Leo Hunt, Jack Whitlam, Josh Harding, Sam Sutton and Nik Silaste.

Freya Carey-Wood said: “The EDF Day was a fun and active experience that included teamwork and initiative. It was thoroughly enjoyable, even though our rocket wouldn’t launch. We built, tested and planned a safe carrier for an egg.”