Primary academy inspires future ambitions during Careers Week
Rushden Primary Academy celebrated a highly successful Careers Week from 6th–10th July, giving pupils across the school the opportunity to explore a wide range of professions, develop workplace skills and learn more about future career possibilities. The week was packed with engaging activities, practical challenges and valuable experiences thanks to the support of staff, visitors and community volunteers.
Monday: Dreaming Big
The week began with a special Dress Up Day, where children came to school dressed as the careers they hope to pursue in the future. From doctors and teachers to engineers, footballers and veterinarians, pupils proudly shared their ambitions.
"I dressed as a vet because I love animals and want to help them when they are poorly," said one Year 2 pupil.
A whole-school careers assembly featured a special “Guess the Job” challenge, where pupils were delighted to discover that the mystery visitor was The Mayor of Rushden. The Mayor spoke openly about her role and answered a range of thoughtful questions from the children, sharing insights into the skills and qualities needed for public service. Pupils were particularly interested in learning about her career journey, the experiences that led her to becoming Mayor and the responsibilities involved in representing the local community. The session provided a valuable opportunity for children to learn how determination, community involvement and leadership can lead to a rewarding career.
Tuesday: Learning Through Experience
Tuesday gave children the chance to step into the shoes of different professionals through a range of hands-on activities.
In Key Stage 1, classrooms became workplaces including a shop, construction site, veterinary surgery and restaurant. Pupils enjoyed role-playing different jobs and learning about the skills needed in each profession.
Meanwhile, Key Stage 2 pupils tackled a series of career-themed challenges. They built paper towers as engineers, tested waterproof materials as scientists, designed school logos and uniforms, planned healthy lunch menus as chefs and wrote stories as authors.
"Building the tower was harder than I thought, but it taught us about teamwork and problem-solving," said a Year 6 pupil.
Wednesday: Developing Enterprise Skills
On Wednesday, pupils turned their attention to preparing for the upcoming RPA Pop-Up Market. Children worked together to create banners, posters, price tags and stall displays, developing their understanding of marketing and business promotion.
Thursday: Inspiring Futures
A highlight of the week was Careers Day, when children spent the afternoon learning directly from volunteers representing a wide range of industries and professions. Pupils chose careers that interested them and took part in activities linked to those roles, while learning first-hand about the qualifications, skills and experiences required.
A Year 6 student added: "The visitors were really inspiring because they showed us how hard work at school can help us achieve our goals."
Friday: RPA Pop-Up Market
The week concluded with the highly anticipated RPA Pop-Up Market, where pupils showcased their products and business ideas. Children prepared and organised stalls before welcoming customers and putting their communication, teamwork and enterprise skills into practice.
Thank You to Our Volunteers
Rushden Primary Academy would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers, visitors and community partners who generously gave their time to support Careers Week. Their enthusiasm, expertise and willingness to share their experiences enriched the learning of every child and helped bring the world of work to life.
Assistant Principal, Miss Hawes, said: "Careers Week has been a fantastic opportunity for our children to develop aspirations, explore new possibilities and understand the importance of the skills they are learning in school today. We are incredibly grateful to all our volunteers who helped make the week such a memorable and inspiring experience."
Careers Week was a wonderful celebration of aspiration, ambition and opportunity, encouraging every child to believe that their future is full of possibilities and that, with determination and hard work, they can achieve their dreams.