Futures Shaped by Alumni and Industry – Attleborough Academy
April 16, 2026
This initiative forms part of Attleborough Academy’s ongoing Sixth Form tutorial and careers programme, designed to broaden students’ awareness of post-18 pathways and future opportunities.
Throughout the year, students engage with a wide range of external speakers, including the Norfolk Higher Aspiration Scheme, the NFU showcasing careers in farming, representatives from AVIVA, and former students sharing their experiences of apprenticeships, placements and professional routes at organisations such as KPMG and Samsung. These sessions build towards our annual Futures Week, which brings together over 30 speakers to cover every major post-18 pathway and sectors most relevant to our students.
During National Apprenticeships Week, we hosted a speed-dating-style event for Year 12 and Year 13 students. Fifteen representatives from diverse industries – including current apprentices, employers and training providers – provided insight into apprenticeship routes, day-to-day working life, application processes and interview preparation. Alumni returned to share inspiring success stories, demonstrating real progression through apprenticeship pathways.
The programme has been highly successful in raising aspirations, strengthening understanding of alternative routes, and supporting informed decision-making. Student feedback highlighted increased awareness of options beyond university and greater confidence in considering apprenticeships as a credible and exciting career pathway. The breadth of engagement ensures all students receive meaningful exposure to a wide range of opportunities, equipping them to make confident choices about their futures.
Quotes
In relation to Futures Week, students have said:
”I enjoyed the variety of sessions that I attended which explored different routes into the sector I am interested in. I enjoyed the exploration of different pathways including university, apprenticeship or job, and that there is something for everyone and that it is alright to not be sure of what you want to do. I also enjoyed learning about career pathways I had not necessarily considered.”
“What I enjoyed most was hearing about different people’s careers, listening to past students and the pathways they took.”
“I enjoyed looking at the different routes that there are to take after A-levels, as well as having people’s past experiences shared with us.”
In relation to the apprenticeships speed-dating-style event, student feedback included:
“It was full of useful information about apprenticeships, how and where to apply, and the different levels available.”
“I found it very useful, and it’s made me consider other options post A-levels.”
“Really good information, and it felt like I learnt about the possible pathways available.”
“Having people give me information about how apprenticeships work has helped me decide what I want to do after sixth form.”
“It gave me a better insight into what it means to choose an apprenticeship and how it helps you gain knowledge in a particular field.”
“It was very insightful and made me realise there are other career routes besides university.”