Pinxton Village Academies holds inspirational First Pupil Conference

Pupils from Kirkstead Junior Academy and John King Infant Academy were given an exciting opportunity to explore future career possibilities during their First Pupil Conference at Pinxton Village Academies.

The event welcomed a range of guest speakers, all keen to share their experiences and inspire the next generation. Children learned about a variety of career paths and gained valuable insight into the skills, education and determination needed to succeed in different fields.

Anne Ingle is the Headteacher of the Pinxton Village Academies which consists of Kirkstead Junior Academy, Longwood Infant Academy and John King Infant Academy, and she explained the motivation behind the event.

Anne said: “This year, we have introduced My Path, an innovative careers platform which helps children understand the skills needed for a wide range of future careers. One of the most powerful aspects of the platform is that it helps pupils see the purpose behind what they learn in primary school, showing how today’s learning develops the skills and knowledge they will need in their future careers and aspirations.

“Our pupils have had the opportunity to explore a diverse range of career pathways, from traditional professions to exciting emerging industries. We have actively challenged stereotypes around jobs and success, encouraging children to understand that there is no single route to achievement and that their ambitions should never be limited by expectations or assumptions. They can be anything they choose.”

Bethany Dickson (Deputy Headteacher) helped to organise the event and said, “The children have had a wonderful day thinking about their aspirations learning about different careers and exploring skills they need for the future. We are so grateful to all of our visitors who took the time out of their day to inspire our children and show them that they can truly be anything they want to be.”

Visitors included representatives from Derbyshire Police, the Army, library services, the dentistry profession, nursing, business transformation, learning and development, film production, media and advertising, theatre and museums.

Anne Ingle (Headteacher) said, “Our conference began with an inspiring keynote speech from our local MP, Natalie Fleet, who shared her personal journey and the passion that first motivated her to pursue a career in public service.

“Natalie spoke about her desire from a young age to make a positive difference in her local community and explained how this ambition has shaped her career. She encouraged pupils to believe in their own ability to create change, highlighting that determination, hard work and a commitment to helping others can open many doors.

“As both a Member of Parliament and a Minister, Natalie continues to champion and support not only her local community but communities across the country, providing a powerful example of how aspirations developed at a young age can grow into a career with real impact.”

Anne Ingle said the event was such a success, they are already planning future conferences.