National Careers Week is an exciting and inspiring time for students across the United Kingdom, including those in Nottingham and Derby. Taking place from 3rd to 8th March, NCW provides a unique opportunity for young people to explore career options, meet industry professionals, and get valuable advice on planning their futures.
Why National Careers Week Matters
National Careers Week is a time to reflect on your future aspirations. Whether you are beginning to think about what you want to do after school or are narrowing down options, NCW is helping to open doors and answer any questions you may have. By connecting students with employers, educators, and role models, the week sparks curiosity and opens doors to different fields.
It’s not just about traditional careers either. Creative industries, digital roles, and jobs in sustainability are being highlighted, showing that the future job market holds plenty of exciting opportunities for everyone.
What’s Happening in Nottingham?
In Nottingham, schools, colleges, and community centres are coming together to offer a range of activities designed to help students discover their potential. Interactive workshops, employer talks, and career fairs are connecting students with local industries. Companies from sectors like digital, healthcare, and engineering are participating, giving students an inside look at what it’s like to work in these fields.
Students are also getting involved in mock interviews and CV writing workshops, helping them feel more confident about entering the job market. Some schools are even hosting “career speed-dating” events, where students ask quick-fire questions to professionals from various fields. It’s a fun and informal way to learn about different job roles and industries, so speak to your teacher to find out what is happening at your school/college.
National Careers Week – North Notts College
National Careers Week – Inspire Culture Nottinghamshire
Derby’s Engagement
In Derby, NCW is equally exciting. Schools and colleges are partnering with local employers to host career fairs and skill-building workshops. The Rolls-Royce Apprenticeship Programme is a highlight in Derby, offering students a close-up look at the possibilities within engineering and manufacturing.
The University of Derby are hosting online webinars and in-person sessions on higher education pathways. These events are particularly helpful for students unsure about whether to go to university, enter an apprenticeship, or take a different path. The university’s “Ask a Student” sessions allow pupils to chat with current undergraduates about their experiences, making the prospect of higher education feel more relatable and achievable.
Looking Ahead
As National Careers Week continues, the conversations and connections made during the week will shape the future for many young people. For students in Nottingham and Derby, the experience serves as a reminder that the world of work is diverse, exciting, and full of possibilities. Whether you’re interested in engineering, healthcare, business, or the arts, there is a career pathway out there for you.
So, if you haven’t yet explored your options during NCW, now is the perfect time. Resources like your school’s careers advisor, local job fairs, and online platforms like the National Careers Service are always available. Keep exploring, stay curious, and remember that your future is in your hands!
Visit www.nationalcareersweek.com for more information.
Useful Links
National Careers Week Virtual Fair 2025
National Careers Week – BBC Bitesize
National Careers Week – GOV.UK
CV and Application Support – UCAS
Blog content written by Hollie O’Connor