Children dream big in aspirational event at Walton Peak Flying High Primary & Nursery Academy
“It was such an inspiring afternoon and the children loved learning about new careers that they may have not thought about before.”
Primary-age children in Chesterfield are exploring how their interests could inspire their future careers at a new event aimed at raising aspirations and broadening horizons.
Walton Peak Flying High Primary & Nursery Academy welcomed visitors from a range of professions for its first Walton Peak Futures event. Through conversations and questions, children explored what different jobs involve, the skills they require, and the commitment needed to pursue them.
Headteacher Mark Parkinson said: “Our first Walton Peak Futures event was a huge success, our sincere thanks go to our visitors, who gave up their time to speak to our children about their professions, and the commitment each of their roles entail.
“Our children were able to explore the pathways to each career and to ask questions of our visitors, widening their knowledge of future possibilities in the world of work. This event will be repeated termly to raise our children’s aspirations and broaden their knowledge of how to attain their future dreams.”
Guest speaker, Dr Ed Harris introduced pupils to the challenges and rewards of working as a doctor, giving children the opportunity to ask questions about the profession. He said: “It was a really enjoyable experience meeting all the children, talking about my job and answering their questions. They were a fantastic audience; attentive, enthusiastic and full of brilliant (and occasionally surprising!) questions. I hope they enjoyed it as much as I did.”
Accident and emergency nurse Colette Harris also shared an insight into her working life. She said: “I had such a wonderful time coming to Walton Peak and chatting about my job. The children had all clearly put a lot of thought into the questions they asked and showed a huge amount of interest in what I did. The children behaved exceptionally well, and it was such a pleasure to come and speak to everyone.”
For pupils, the event offered a chance to connect the things they enjoy now, with the careers they might pursue in the future.
Eva, aged six, was inspired by a Walton Peak teacher, saying: “I loved learning all about Mrs Chell’s job as a photographer. I can’t believe she has an extra job on the weekends taking photos of people’s weddings! I’d love to be creative like Mrs Chell when I am older.”
Madison, aged seven, was inspired by Read Revive founder Georgia Mackenzie, saying, “I thought Georgia was amazing as she helps people who find it tricky to read. I’d like to be a teacher when I am older and teach people new things!”
Tracey, aged ten, linked a love of science with an ambition to work in healthcare, saying: “This was such a cool afternoon. I can’t choose a favourite visitor! It inspired me to do what I love and work as a doctor in a hospital in the future. Like Dr Ed, I love learning about science.”
Teacher Rosemary Foster-North said: “It was such an inspiring afternoon and the children loved learning about new careers that they may have not thought about before. It was fantastic to see them excited to ask questions and recognise the skills that are important for their future.”