From Dream Jobs to Dragon’s Den: Careers Day 2026
9th January 2026
The Spring Term began with energy, creativity and ambition as we welcomed students back to school with a whole-school Careers Day, designed to inspire future pathways and develop real-world skills across every year group.
Our youngest pupils launched the day in style, arriving dressed as their dream jobs. From doctors and designers to athletes, scientists and artists, the Junior School corridors were filled with imagination and excitement, encouraging early conversations about aspirations and possibilities for the future.
Dragon’s Den Challenge: Years 7 and 8
Years 7 and 8 took part in a dynamic Dragon’s Den–style challenge, led by our Head of Careers, Mr Jones. Throughout the day, students engaged in bespoke sessions exploring global challenges, effective pitching, and the fundamentals of branding and logo design.
Working collaboratively, pupils developed innovative business ideas aimed at solving real-world problems. These ranged from environmentally focused solutions such as drones designed to prevent wildfires and support reforestation, to products like a portable water filtration bottle designed to provide safe drinking water in challenging conditions. The day culminated in student teams pitching their ideas to a panel of staff, testing not only their creativity but also their confidence, teamwork and communication skills.
As one student reflected, the experience offered “a peek into the business world” and helped them understand how ideas turn into successful ventures. The Dragon’s Den challenge was about much more than business ideas. It encouraged flexible thinking, collaboration and problem-solving, while drawing on skills from across the curriculum, from art and design to geography, history and technology. These experiences help students see how their learning connects to the wider world and future careers.
Senior Students: Focus and Experience
While our Years 11 and 13 revised for their upcoming mock examinations, Years 9 and 12 took part in work shadowing opportunities, gaining valuable first-hand insight into the world of work and different career pathways. Meanwhile, Year 10 students remained in school for a programme of careers-based lessons, designed to help them explore future options, develop employability skills and begin thinking more strategically about their next steps.
A Meaningful Start to the Term
Careers Day was a powerful reminder that education is about more than academic success alone. By encouraging curiosity, ambition and practical skill development, we aim to equip our students with the confidence and adaptability they need for whatever paths they choose to follow.