WAES Careers Week and HE Fair November 2025

The WAES Careers Team successfully delivered the first Careers Week of the new academic year, which took place from Monday 10 November to Friday 14 November 2025.

Across the week, more than 300 learners attended a wide range of career guidance sessions, employability workshops, and inspirational talks. These activities were designed to help learners explore future pathways, build confidence, and develop the skills needed for long-term success.

A standout moment of the week was the Higher Education Fair on Wednesday 12 November, where learners explored what university study could offer and gained valuable insight into the next stages of their educational and career journeys. Representatives included Fred A. Bonful, Senior UK Student Recruitment and Widening Participation Officer at the University of Westminster, and Ian Thompson, Outreach Manager for Camberwell, Chelsea and Wimbledon at the University of the Arts London, both of whom delivered presentations.

Learners also heard an inspiring talk from Violet, a past learner and WAES alumna who recently graduated from UAL. In addition, some of our Floristry learners took part in a hands-on Plant Masterclass delivered by Chartered Horticulturist Franzi Cheeseman, bringing creativity and practical skills to the event. Sonal Kapoor from Brain Abilitiez also delivered an engaging session to our Inclusive Pathways learners, further enriching the experience for all involved.

Staff encouraged learners to participate in the sessions and to reflect on their goals whether that involved preparing questions, identifying ambitions, or considering long-term aspirations.

Learners were also able to book one-to-one guidance sessions with a Careers and Learner Development Officer via WAES Futures, giving them the opportunity to review their CVs and explore tailored career options as they planned their next steps.

“The workshops that are taking place are very interesting and help us get an idea of how things work so that we can follow the right path towards our goals. I have participated in 3 sessions so far and our vision really changes. We are provided with all possible assistance and all questions are answered” – WAES Learner Patricia Pereira