On Wednesday 30th January, Year 11 at Henrietta Barnett, fresh from their mocks, were thrown into their first encounter with the vast world of adult life after school. The Careers Fair came as an abrupt awakening to many, who liken their school as a “protective bubble”. For perhaps the first time, we were able to truly appreciate the magnitude of the possibilities, and the problems, that will follow the end of their secondary school education.
Henrietta Barnett is a grammar school for girls in Hampstead Garden Suburb. It is widely known for being, as The Good Schools Guide calls it, 'One of the best academic state schools in the country, which provides "a gentle, inspiring education in a wonderful setting for very clever girls'. But the Year 11s are congruent with any children of the same age: immensely excited by the future that awaits them, but simultaneously scared out of the minds by the same concept. We are every bit as nervous and tense as the next teenager who is due to sit what seem to be the most important exams of our lives. In any case, they will be the most important ones we have ever experienced before. Many are unsure about their A-Levels - whether they should take Physics or Further Maths or both, whether they should drop Classical Civilisation because their parents would rather have them take a “proper subject” like Design and Technology, whether Religious Studies will run this year.
Hopefully, the brilliant Careers Fair has made our decisions fractionally easier. Although the hall-full of stern looking adults may have been overwhelming at first, we quickly filled up the seats in front of various professionals representing a large number of different industries and employment sectors. From artists to genetic scientists, theatre designers to software engineers, there was definitely plenty for each girl to consider. The opportunity to talk to people about their educational journeys was a valuable one, as we were able to glean vital information, tips and advice from individuals who knew the profession best. Concepts surrounding degree choices, apprenticeships and day-to-day work were explained.
It was also wonderful to see the enthusiasm surrounding STEM professions, namely Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. According to STEMwomen.co.uk, women make up only 24% of STEM graduates, which is less than a quarter. The girls at Henrietta Barnett seem to want to change this statistic single-handedly. The most popular A level subject in 2018 was Mathematics, with 97 out of 127 students choosing to take it. This is mind-blowing majority, and it is extremely encouraging to see. In addition, Alan Bullock, an independent careers adviser, consultant, speaker and writer, was present to give the year group a talk about their choices, both at A level and further. Bullock was absolutely fantastic, as he was able to reassure, persuade and influence positively in equal measures. He predicted that at least one person sitting in the room would “change the course of history” in the future. After having studied at Henrietta Barnett for nearly five years, it wouldn’t be a surprise to me if his prediction proves to be right.
