Employer Insights at Sopra Steria
In March, Year 12 students from Hastings & Bexhill, Swindon and Bedfordshire had the opportunity to attend an Employer Insight Day at Sopra Steria’s London office, situated next to St Paul’s Cathedral.
During the visit, students gained valuable insight into how a range of career pathways, degree choices and academic achievements can be applied in real workplace settings. They heard from Sopra Steria employees with diverse backgrounds, including a Psychology graduate who uses their expertise in HR, recruitment and communications, and a Law graduate who applies their knowledge to work involving legal matters. These examples helped students understand how different subjects can lead to varied and rewarding careers.
Throughout the day, students took part in two interactive workshops and a speed networking activity. The first workshop explored the complexities of artificial intelligence, highlighting both its benefits and potential risks. Staff emphasised the rapid growth of AI and the importance of understanding how to use it effectively to enhance work, without becoming overly reliant on it.
The second workshop focused on CV building, guiding students on how to structure their CVs, what information to include, and what employers typically look for during recruitment. This session led into a discussion about interview preparation, common interview questions and practical advice shared by Sopra Steria staff. Later in the day, students participated in a carousel-style networking activity where staff rotated around the room to share their career journeys and answer questions, giving students further insight into different professional pathways.
Overall, the students thoroughly enjoyed the trip and left with a deeper understanding of career pathways, CV writing and the practical use of AI, as well as renewed motivation and guidance to help them pursue their future goals.
What about students said future Leader thought about the day:
“It was inspirational for the future and made me realise what is possible”
“I enjoyed talking to others, making friends, asking questions to staff and finding more about different job roles and getting advice for my CV was very useful”
“I enjoyed the networking and being able to talk to people who are in similar situations to myself”
In the evaluation, 92% of students rated the day overall a 7-10 and 77% reported that the trip was informative in relation to CV building and future opportunities.
Jamie Beard
Progression Coach
Hastings and Bexhill
