Speed-dating style sessions took a different turn at a West Cumbrian school as pupils were matched up with prospective careers.

St Benedict’s Catholic High School held a World of Work day for Year 9 students to give them a taste of what is on offer after education.

Over 200 students spent the day working with local businesses in a variety of tasks, which were organised by the school working in conjunction with Inspira.

The event, saw nearly 50 ambassadors from a variety of different vocations, as well as representatives from Inspira and Hello Futures, put the students through their paces in a bid to prepare them for the world of work.

St Benedict’s headteacher Emma Jackson, said: “This is a wonderful event for our students. It gives them an insight into what the world of work has to offer and how exciting the future can be.”

The students were placed in ‘speed-dating styled’ meet and greet situations, to interview different employers, with firms such as Sellafield Ltd, Energus, the NHS and even the British Army attending.

And some former students of the school also returned to pass on their experiences.

Joe Moore, now a Sellafield project management apprentice, said: “I’ve enjoyed the World of Work Day, and think the students have gained some good insights. I have passed on some useful tips for CV writing and applications forms.”

The pupils also enjoyed the day, finding it very worthwhile, with Elizabeth Clingan saying: “I’ve enjoyed speaking to all of the different business, and feel I learnt something different from them all. I already know I want to be a veterinary nurse when I leave school, but this was still very useful in showing me some other options.”

Ethan Robinson said: “I really enjoyed talking to the Army, as this is what I want to do when I leave school. He gave me some really useful advice. I think that this is a really good event for the Year 9 students.”

Sophie Douglas added: “I enjoyed talking to the fire service in particular, as this is what I know I want to do when I leave school. They gave me some good advice and told me to always go with my instincts.”

Teacher and Head of Year 9 Laura Dawson, said it was key for students to see what is on offer.

She said: “This is a very important year for our students and we are very keen that they gain an understanding of the world of work before choosing their GCSE options. We are committed to giving them the opportunity to meet people from a range of professions.”

Vicky Ritson from Inspira helped to organise the event. She added: “We are delighted to have helped organise this World of Work morning once again. Thanks to the BECBC Business & Schools Collaboration Programme for encouraging such a diverse range of local employers to take part.”