More than 100 volunteers generously gave up their time, including former pupils, parents, colleagues, and representatives from higher education. Many travelled from Edinburgh and the surrounding area, while others journeyed from across the UK – and even a few from overseas – to share their expertise. Their contributions helped bring a wide range of industries to life across four themed sessions: Business, Finance & Property; STEAM; Social Sciences & Law; and Sport, Hospitality & Travel.
Natasha Martins, who volunteered at the Social Sciences & Law event, said, ‘“It was a real privilege to come and speak with pupils interested in law and social sciences. I was incredibly impressed by how supported and well-informed the pupils were about different employment and education pathways. It was also great to hear from fellow professionals and learn the wide range of interests and ambitions among the students.”
Every single S5 student attended at least one lunch, making this an invaluable experience for the whole year group. The conversations sparked curiosity, broadened horizons, and offered practical advice that will help guide pupils as they begin shaping their future pathways.
Maria , an S5 student at MES, thought it was an invaluable event. “I found it useful as there were people who had gone down several different routes to do jobs in the same fields or interesting jobs incorporating what I am interested in but in fields that I didn’t realise you could go into. I think the wide variety of jobs was amazing. It also forces pupils to put themselves in a new situation and get experience talking to professionals and assessing how they wanted to use their time.”
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported this initiative. Your willingness to share your time, insights and experiences strengthens the bridge between school and the wider world.
If you would like to be involved in future events or mentoring opportunities, please get in touch with our Careers Team here careers@esms.org.uk.
