Laleham school pupils seek career inspiration from the experts in audiology and eye care

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RIMARY school pupils had the opportunity to quiz business professionals and experts to find out more about what their jobs entailed and what they enjoyed about them.

The children attending Laleham Church of England Primary School spent the day in ‘costume’, wearing the clothes that for them represented their dream job. With the overall theme of the day being to inspire the youngsters, aged from six to eleven years old, the optical and audiology experts from Specsavers Staines were on hand to discuss all things relating to eyes and ears.

The team had various posters, a Snellen chart used in a sight test, an ear mould and various assortments of goodies the children could take away with them. These included leaflets about time spent using screens and protecting their eyes, plus information on hearing and how to protect their ears, with the take-home message being ‘wax is your friend’ because it’s the ear’s self-cleaning mechanism.

The children gained lots of newfound knowledge to pass on to friends and family, as well as insights into the different jobs at Specsavers.

Helen Belkhodja, retail director of Specsavers Staines, said: ‘We were delighted to support the school’s careers day. As a team we’re focussed on individual development, so it was great to speak to the children and help them understand more about the different jobs at Specsavers.

‘Hopefully, this provided some inspiration and guidance for them, plus they learned a little bit more about caring for their eyes and ears.’

In total over 300 pupils from the school visited the Careers Fair and chatted to the professionals, learning about which subjects they might need to study at GCSEs and A levels, plus higher education to qualify in various professions. They also wanted to find out what was fun and enjoyable about the different roles. Overall, the event provided an opportunity to speak to adults who might already be doing the role they believe to be their ‘dream’ job.

Back in their classrooms, the children took part in different activities, all with the aim of inspiring them to consider the many possibilities life can offer.

With the vast choice of work and study options available to students these days, inviting businesses, employers and education providers into the school to pose questions seems a great way for the children to find out more first-hand from local professionals.

As an organisation, Specsavers encourages colleagues to further their qualifications and progress their careers within the group. The Specsavers Career Pathway offers staff the opportunity to study for industry recognised qualifications which encompass a wide variety of roles, including customer services, optician, dispensing optician, optical assistant, and audiology assistant.

For anyone who wants to check out if their eyesight or hearing is in tip top condition, you can contact Specsavers Staines on 01784 493355 or you can also book online: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/staines