Presenting the alternatives at Felpham Community School

Exploring alternative options for sixth form students at Felpham Community College were former students James Riley and Ed Dudley-Warde who presented their personal experiences of apprenticeships at a special assembly held on Tuesday (17 November).

Around 200 students, both sixth form and some Year 11 students, packed into the hall to hear the first hand experiences of how their careers had started through apprenticeships.  The presentation was followed by a lively question and answer session. 

Gill Woodman, careers and vocational links co-ordinator, said:   “The most important aspect was to highlight the alternative career routes open to students after they finish their A ‘levels so that they can make an informed choice.  

“Many choose the university route but less is known about apprenticeships so it was great to have James and Ed explaining first-hand how these options can also fast-track a career, particularly as both young men came to this school until only a few years ago and now both hold good jobs with promising careers already underway.” 

James Riley, lettings manager at Henry Adams in Bognor, said: “I felt it was important to talk about the other options available and although I always knew university wasn’t for me, I wasn’t sure of what other options I had.  Once I found out about apprenticeships, I thought it would be a better route for me. I’ve had a very good experience with my apprenticeship which has now led to me becoming the Lettings Manager at Henry Adams.” 

James added: “Hopefully it will help some of the students as they consider their future and it will be really rewarding to have influenced younger people positively in their careers, whichever route they decide on.”   

Felpham Community College is keen to forge ever closer links with local employers and welcomes enquiries from firms wishing to get involved.