Work is Fun

"Work is more fun than fun". A difficult proposition to agree with, possibly, for a Lower Sixth year-group just emerging from the considerable rigours of the AS examination season. Headmaster Robert Holroyd's mention of Noël Coward's typically mischievous aphorism at the post-event reception, however, neatly encapsulates the guiding idea behind the annual Careers Forum at Repton, which took place last Friday, June 10 - to begin focusing Reptonians on the world beyond A levels and the Arch, and encourage them to think seriously about the career paths which may be particularly appropriate to them as individuals.

To this end pupils attended two sessions of their choice, each chaired by delegates from the work of work, who typically described their areas of expertise and activity, and answered questions. The range of occupations covered was impressive - medicine, physiotherapy, accountancy, surveying, retailing, engineering, law, marketing, design, acting, journalism and television were among the areas on offer. Unsurprisingly discussion spilled well beyond the formal sessions into drinks in the Garth afterwards, and the dinner generously hosted at the Hall for delegates and selected pupils by the Headmaster and Mrs Holroyd.

The small-group format of the Forum was viewed as particularly useful by the pupils ("You felt more comfortable asking questions", said one participant), and overall the evening was judged extremely valuable. "I thought the Careers Forum was very helpful", one pupil typically commented. "I wasn’t expecting it to be so useful". Thanks are due to all the Old Reptonians, parents and friends of the school who gave their time so generously to chair sessions, and share their insights into the working environment of the twenty-first century with the current generation of Lower Sixth pupils.