Students Pass Tough Interview Challenge

More than 220 Year 10 students from Avonbourne and Harewood colleges were tasked with applying for their dream job – and then sent off for job interviews conducted by a wide range of local and national employers.

In scenes worthy of The Apprentice, the young job seekers were subjected to tough interview questions – and honest feedback on their performance. The 14 and 15 year-olds could apply for a wide range of jobs, from architect to electronic engineer, graphic designer to aerospace engineer and sports psychologist to journalist.

Principal of Avonbourne College, Jason Holbrook, said: “This is an excellent exercise as it gives our students a taste of what to expect for when they start applying for apprenticeships, college or sixth form places in real life. “The skills they learn through events such as these are invaluable and will stay with them forever.”

Harewood College’s Principal, Adam Coshan, added: “This event would not be possible without the help of the employers who take part. We are immensely grateful to them for giving up their time and sharing their vast experience and advice with our students.”

Altogether, there were a record 45 employers from 21 organisations making up the interview panels.

The companies putting the students through their paces were Microsoft, JP Morgan, LV, BNY Mellon, Barclays, Intalent, Zupa, Trinity HR, Hampshire Police, South Central Ambulance Service, GEOSIGHT Ltd, Environment Agency, Bournemouth University, The Change Agent, University of Winchester, Match Marketing Services, House of Maths, Event Entertainer, Bournemouth and Poole College, Teaching Personnel and BCP Council.

Microsoft’s Lucy Bramley, said: “This was an extremely valuable exercise for all concerned. The students got real life job application and interview experience and the employers got to discuss the views and career goals of more than 200 students.”

Lucy, who also acts as an Enterprise Adviser to Avonbourne Trust, added: “The people attending the event were also able to network with a diverse group of employers and I feel sure I was not the only one to make some new excellent contacts.”