Careers Bulletin – June 2025
Packed with events, insights, and resources to help pupils and parents navigate the next steps with confidence.
What is a career?
A career is a life-long journey of learning, skills acquisition, knowledge, experiences and opportunities. At Kimbolton School, we are very proud to be an integral part of your child’s career journey, supporting and encouraging them as they grow and develop throughout the Senior School and beyond.
Careers activities in June at Kimbolton School
Kim Fest! – 9 -20 June, 2025
We’re thrilled to announce the return of Kim Fest! our biennual Arts Festival. This much-anticipated celebration brings together the talents of both the Prep and Senior Schools, showcasing a rich and vibrant programme of events led by the Drama, Music, Art and English Departments. We will be highlighting the many career opportunities within the Arts, inspiring pupils to explore this dynamic field as a future path on the 17 June at lunchtime. If you work in the Arts or have studied an Arts subject and would like to share your experiences during these weeks, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Mrs Cassell
Throughout the festival, pupils, staff, and invited professionals will host an exciting range of creative activities, including:
- Creative Writing Workshops
- 6th Form Plays
- Pop-Up Poetry Corners
- A Junior Production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
- Pupil-Led Shakespeare Workshops
- African Drumming Sessions
- Summer Concerts in both the Prep and Senior Schools
- GCSE Art and Prep Art Exhibition
Post-18/UCAS Surgery – Saturday 7, 14 and 21 June 2025, 9:30 – 12:00h
This surgery is for Lower 6th pupils to work on their UCAS applications – particularly useful for pupils applying to early deadline courses. These are drop in sessions in the Castle workroom/UCAS centre and no appointment is necessary.
Sixth Form Induction Day – Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 June 2025, all day
Our current 5th Form pupils will take part in two insightful and engaging induction days designed to help them prepare for life in the 6th Form. During this programme, they will have the opportunity to attend taster lessons, meet their future tutors and academic staff, and connect with new pupils joining us from other schools.
The induction also includes important organisational sessions to help pupils plan their timetables, including arrangements for Sports, the Community Service Unit, and extension courses. In addition to these preparatory activities, pupils will enjoy team-building exercises designed to foster collaboration and friendships.
The programme includes a celebratory dinner and dance – a memorable occasion to mark the beginning of their 6th Form journey.
For further information, please contact Mrs Leakey
Linguistics Talk – Wednesday 25 June 2025, 8:50-10:40h
We are pleased to welcome Dr Rebecca Mitchell from the University of Cambridge to speak to the 4th Form about linguistics – the science of language. Pupils will explore how language works, why it matters, and the many exciting pathways it can lead to, from education and translation to AI, law, and beyond. This is a fantastic opportunity to discover a subject that develops highly transferable skills and opens doors to a wide range of future careers.
Celebrating recent Careers Events
Higher Education and Careers Fair May 2025
This year, Ms Jackson organised a fantastic Higher Education and Careers Fair for pupils from 4th Form to Upper 6th. The event brought together universities, apprenticeship providers, gap year pupils, and local businesses—all sharing insights into a wide range of pathways and professions. A big thank you to all the pupils and parents who attended. We’re grateful for your feedback and look forward to next year’s Fair! A special mention to our Old Kimboltonians who attended Georgia Chapman, Dan Johnson, Ishan Sarkar and Sadie Werrett.
We really appreciate the support from Universities, local and national companies to make the event a success:
Universities – Birmingham, Sheffield, Falmouth, Lancaster, Exeter, Coventry, Leicester, Nottingham, Southampton, Newcastle, Oxford Brookes, UEA and the College of Animal Welfare.
Companies – Hammersmith Medicines, Streets Chartered Accountants, Beacon Wealth Management, Village Vet, Orchards Cookery Ltd, Price Bailey, Kimbolton Vets, Arcade UK, Cambridge Enterprise, Atkin Chambers and Randstad.
Uniformed Services – Royal Air Force, Police, British Army, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue.
Careers Exploration Event May 2025
During exam week, our 1st and 2nd Form pupils took a break from revision to take part in a fantastic careers-themed activity. They met with local employers and Old Kimboltonians, using their detective skills to guess each guest’s job through a series of inquisitive questions.
From a F1 programmer/analyst and accountant to a pharmacist, property manager and magazine owner and more, pupils were introduced to a fascinating range of career paths. It was a fun and engaging session, full of curiosity, laughter and learning.
Degree Apprenticeship Academy
The Degree Apprenticeship Academy started this term and we have 23 pupils signed up in the Lower 6th. The next tutorials are after school on Tuesday 17 and 24 June and Friday 20 and 27 June. If you are a parent and want more information on Degree Apprenticeships, Mrs Southern did a live webinar in December, with an Old Kimboltonian sharing her journey as a current apprentice. If you would like to view this webinar please contact Mrs Southern for more information. Following this you can book a 1:1 appointment later in June to discuss any further questions you may have.
Spotlight on GCSE Music
How does studying Music develop creative skills for future careers?
Studying Music in school is much more than learning to play an instrument or read sheet music. Music is not only an enriching subject in its own right but also a valuable foundation for personal growth and professional development. Whether or not you pursue music as a career, the transferrable skills gained can benefit you across many fields and industries.
Key transferrable skills developed through Music:
- Creativity and Innovation – Music encourages original thinking and imaginative problem-solving.
- Discipline and Focus – Regular practice and performance preparation build concentration and self-motivation.
- Collaboration – Playing in ensembles or bands teaches teamwork and effective communication.
- Confidence – Performing in front of others builds self-assurance and resilience.
- Emotional Intelligence – Expressing and interpreting emotion through music enhances empathy and self-awareness.
Links between Music and other Subjects:
- Mathematics – Rhythm, time signatures, and musical patterns involve numerical understanding and sequencing.
- Physics – Acoustics and sound waves relate closely to scientific principles.
- English Language, Literature and Modern Foreign Languages – Song lyrics, musical terminology, and expression strengthen language skills.
- History – Exploring musical genres supports cultural awareness and historical knowledge.
Here are some websites to research further:
Careers In The Music Industry – UK Music
Careers in music: how to get started in the industry | Prospects.ac.uk
The Impact of AI on Music Careers
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming many industries, including the world of music. While some roles may change significantly, there are also exciting new opportunities emerging for those with musical knowledge and creative skills.
Potential Changes and Challenges:
- Music Production Automation – AI can now generate music, harmonies, and even lyrics, which may reduce the need for basic composition or production services in some commercial contexts.
- Shifts in Job Roles – Routine editing, mixing, and mastering tasks can be handled more quickly by AI, changing the day-to-day responsibilities of sound engineers and producers.
- Increased Competition – AI-generated content can be produced rapidly and at low cost, potentially creating more competition for freelance musicians and composers.
Opportunities Created by AI:
- Human-AI Collaboration – Musicians can work alongside AI tools to create innovative music, enhance live performances, or explore new sounds.
- New Career Paths – Roles such as AI music programmer, creative technologist, or digital performance designer are emerging, blending music with data and technology.
- Enhanced Accessibility – AI tools can help people with disabilities create or experience music in new ways, supporting inclusive careers in music education or therapy.
- Expanded Global Reach – Online platforms powered by AI help artists distribute and promote their work more effectively, opening up international career opportunities.
AI will not replace musicians, however musicians who can understand and work with AI will have a strong advantage. By blending traditional musical training with digital literacy, young people can future-proof their careers while continuing to express their creativity and passion.
UK Music Apprenticeship Development
UK Music Apprenticeship Development – UK Music helps develop apprenticeship schemes, which aim to support music employers to hire committed and passionate apprentices and help get talented people into paid jobs in the music industry.
UK Music have been working with industry, CC Skills and ScreenSkills to develop three new apprenticeship standards for the music industry. All at different stages of development they are:
- Assistant Recording Technician – get a role in a studio learning how to produce music.
- Music Project Planner – work for a label or publisher on releases from start to finish.
- Music Instrument Technician – maintain instruments in a variety of settings including musical instrument retail and rental.
Focus on the Uniformed Services
There are more Uniformed Services than you might first think of that you can be part of, and they all have common skills that they require and school subjects that would be useful. The uniformed services play a vital role in keeping the country safe, secure, and supported in times of need. Careers in this sector can be exciting, challenging, and deeply rewarding. They offer opportunities to serve your community, work as part of a team, and develop valuable life and leadership skills. Below there are useful links for each service to find out more!
Emergency Services
- Ambulance Service (including paramedics and emergency medical technicians)
- Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) – a charity-run but uniformed emergency response organisation
Armed Forces
- Royal Marines (a corps within the Royal Navy)
- Reserves and Cadet Forces – including the Army Reserve, RAF Reserves, Royal Navy Reserves, and associated cadet organisations
Security and Border Services
- HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) – including prison officers
Other Uniformed Public Services
- National Crime Agency (NCA) – some roles are uniformed
- Transport Police – such as the British Transport Police
- Environmental Enforcement Officers (local government roles with uniformed presence)
If you’re motivated by teamwork, enjoy solving problems, and want to make a real difference, a career in the uniformed services could be the right path for you. School subjects, physical fitness, and developing personal responsibility all help build a strong foundation for this career route.
Virtual work and career experiences
Meet British Airways: wings to your future
Wednesday 4 June 2025, 17:30-19:00h
Requires travel to Cardiff for an exclusive in-person event at British Airways Maintenance Cardiff. Whether you are a pupil starting to think about your future career or a parent looking to support your child who is seeking to learn more about the opportunities that British Airways has to offer – this event is designed just for you.
This event is open to all pupils from 4th Form to Upper 6th who are ready to explore a new exciting career pathways and will give you the chance to meet the people who keep one of the world’s leading airlines flying.
Get into Teaching
Saturday 7 June 2025, 10:00-14:30h
The Get into Teaching event in London can help you find out if teaching in primary and secondary schools is the career for you. Whether you’re ready to start your career in teaching or just curious, the expert advisers can help you work out your next steps.
Deutsche Bank virtual insight event
Wednesday 11 June 2025, 16:00 – 17:30h
Deutsche Bank, a leader in global financial services, celebrates its 150th anniversary in the UK this year. With over 7,000 employees across London and Birmingham, the bank plays a vital role in supporting businesses, communities, and the economy. Their apprenticeship programs provide excellent pathways for young talent to grow and thrive in a supportive, inclusive environment. This event is an insight into pathways into Deutsche Bank.
AWE Nuclear Security Technologies: apprenticeship opportunities
Tuesday 17 June 17:30-19:00h
For more than 70 years, AWE Nuclear Security Technologies has supported the UK Government’s nuclear defence strategy and the Continuous At Sea Deterrent. They also use their nuclear know-how and technical expertise to provide innovative solutions that support the UK’s counter-terrorism and nuclear threat reduction activities. This session is designed to provide both pupils and parents with a comprehensive understanding of AWE’s apprenticeship opportunities. Our aim is to ensure everyone leaves with a clear awareness of the apprenticeship opportunities available and the knowledge needed to support pupils as they prepare for application process.
Escape Studios: creative industry led degree experience
Wednesday 9 July 2025
Escape Studios are a leading Animation, Games and VFX school known for producing studio-ready talent. They work closely with industry partners to ensure our degrees remain relevant and impactful. From programming for games and VFX to concept art and experience design, their courses are designed to prepare you for your dream job from day one. Test drive our industry software, meet our tutors and try out your discipline of choice during a trial day of learning at our North Greenwich campus.
London School of Economics and political science with taster courses
Wednesday 9 July 2025
Your First Look into University Life
Lower 6th pupils are invited to explore undergraduate study through the University of London taster course programme. LSE’s free, in-person Taster Courses offer you the chance to try out subjects, learn from LSE academics and connect with current pupils.
- Studying History – Wednesday, 4 June 2025
- BSc Language, Culture and Society – Tuesday, 10 June 2025
- Studying Anthropology – Wednesday, 11 June 2025
Young Professionals summer conference work experience day in London at the O2
Tuesday 15 July 2025, 13.30 – 17:00h
This is your chance to step inside one of the world’s most iconic venues and meet some of the most prestigious employers in business, banking, finance, law, engineering, and technology, all in one place. There will also be a big focus at this event on Business and Entrepreneurship, with a step by step guide on how to start a business, raise finance, scale and market brands on a global scale. Some of the employers attending include; Goldman Sachs, BDO, Lloyds Banking Group, Rothschild & Co Legal & General, Grant Thornton, UBS, Linklaters, Farrer & Co, Charles Russell Speechlys, Browne Jacobson.
STEM Summer work experience
Summer – in person
Are you interested in pursuing a career in science, technology, engineering or maths? An organisation called InvestIN is running summer schools in 10 different STEM industries this July and August, in central London, for 4th Form to Upper 6th. Pupils will get to work alongside professionals in their places of work (such as a hospital, airfield, tech hub) and gain real knowledge, experience and skills to refer to in future university and job applications. You can join a 1-week or 2-week programme, with options available in architecture, computing, dentistry, entrepreneurship, forensics, banking, medicine, psychology and veterinary science. Accommodation at UCL halls of residence is also available to book. You can explore the programme timetables and register your place. These courses are subject to a fee.
John Lewis Partnership Virtual Work Experience
On demand
Whether just starting your career or looking to change your career direction, everyone is welcome at JLP. Our virtual work experience gives you a taste of just a few of the careers available across the Partnership.
Our organisation is a complex puzzle of amazing people, with incredible skills all pulling together to achieve the John Lewis Partnership vision. It’s time to experience that for yourself!
Environment Agency Virtual Work Experience
On demand
Pupils have an opportunity to explore careers in environmental protection, sustainability, and flood risk management.
✅ Explore flood and coastal risk management and sustainability challenges.
✅ Discover career pathways in environmental science and engineering.
✅ Gain transferable skills through interactive content and quizzes.
✅ Earn a certificate of completion to boost university and job applications.
General work experience websites:
Springpod – work experience opportunities both on demand and also live
The Forage – online work experience with large corporate companies – tasks and interaction
OpenLearn Courses – a really good site for courses and particularly ones that relate to specific jobs or further learning courses.
Alison Courses– lots of free short courses.
Where can I get more careers advice and information?
Any pupil from 1st Form to Upper 6th who has questions about their career journey can arrange a careers appointment with Mrs Southern by filling in this form or speaking to their tutor.
Parents are also encouraged to contact Mrs Southern if you have questions related to your child’s careers education or planning. Contact Ms Jackson for university-related queries.
- Careers by subject area
- Careers by industry area
- Degree apprenticeship listing A-Z
- What you can do with your university subject degree?
- University open days University subject tasters and events
- Aspire guide to careers, further education and university
- Degree Apprenticeship information
- Up-to-date information on degree apprenticeship vacancies around the UK
- Degree Apprenticeship Academy – contact Mrs Southern for more information.