During the final two weeks of the summer term, students benefited from a series of Work Ready careers talks organised through the School's Pock Connects programme by Gillian Jones, Careers & University Adviser, and Rachel Dare, OP Liaison Officer. The initiative brought together Old Pocklingtonians from a wide range of industries to share their career journeys, workplace experiences and practical advice with students as they began exploring their own future pathways.

Designed to be informal and interactive, the talks gave students the opportunity to hear first-hand from professionals working across business, sport, higher education, finance and apprenticeships, as well as ask questions about career progression, university choices and life beyond school.

Among the speakers was Joe Laudage (04–15), Senior Buying Manager for Fresh Produce at Lidl. Joe shared his experiences of studying International Business Management with German and working in Germany for companies including Grimme, EDEKA and Lidl before progressing to a senior buying role in London.

Students interested in careers in sport heard from Alex Cowdy (94–97), Head of Football Operations at Stockport County FC. Alex spoke about his career in professional football, which has included roles with clubs such as Blackpool FC and Nottingham Forest FC, as well as his work as an FA Judicial Panel Member and former football agent.

Product design and higher education were the focus of a session led by Professor David Swann (Former Parent), a Product Design lecturer at York St John University. With more than three decades of experience in higher education and expertise in sustainable design and co-design, David offered students an insight into the creative industries and the opportunities available within design-related careers.

A popular session on apprenticeships was delivered by Honey Roe (12–24), a Supply Chain Apprentice at Nestlé. Honey discussed her own apprenticeship journey, from beginning a law apprenticeship to moving into supply chain management, and gave practical advice on applications, employer expectations and the benefits of alternative routes into employment.

The programme also included a talk from Conor Sacks, a Project Manager at international investment bank Nomura, who shared his experiences of working within the financial sector and provided valuable insights into careers in economics, banking and project management.

The talks formed part of the School's ongoing commitment to helping students explore a broad range of career pathways and connect with alumni willing to share their expertise. Organisers hope to build on the success of this inaugural programme and expand the range of speakers and sectors represented in future years.