Inspiring futures in STEM

Students at Worthing College have been discovering more about careers in STEM.

The college held its first STEM careers fair recently, giving students an opportunity to speak to employers and organisations in exciting science, technology, engineering and maths fields. 
 
Hundreds of students met experts from companies including the NHS, Rolls-Royce, the Observatory Science Centre, GB Electronics, London Gatwick and the Sussex Dolphin Project – as well as representatives from universities across the region. 
 
Jenny Thompson, Vice Principal at Worthing College, said: “We are so grateful to the employers who gave up their time to come to the college and spend time inspiring our students, showcasing the opportunities that are available to them once they have completed their studies. 
 
“This was our first STEM careers event, and it follows a successful business focused one earlier this year. Next month, we will be hosting another careers event for law and social sciences. 
 
“It has been fantastic to see the curiosity and interest shown by our students, who have come along armed with insightful questions and an eagerness to discover more about the companies and what they do, as well as what opportunities are out there. 
 
“It’s vital for our students to be able to see the careers they can enjoy after college, and for us – as a college – to be able to meet our local employers, to discover more about what they are looking for in their future workforce which helps to inform our curriculum.” 
 
There were several familiar faces amongst the employers – with a number for former Worthing College students returning to inspire the next generation. 
 
They spoke warmly of their time at the college – especially the support they received from the team. 
 
Sophie, who now works as a development scientist for Allergy Therapeutics, studied chemistry, biology and psychology from 2013-15. She revealed: “I have some great memories. I remember the teachers and how supportive they were.” 
 
Jamie, who works as shift team leader at VPI – a company that operates and maintains power generation assets, added: “Worthing College was excellent, it was really positive. The staff really supported me and helped me.”