Promoting PR careers in National Apprenticeship Week

In support of National Apprenticeship Week (9-13 March), last night I had a stand at Bromley College‘s Apprenticeships Fair to promote careers and apprenticeships in PR.

My assistant for the evening was first year Career Academy student, Nadia, who I’m mentoring. We spoke to many young people about their career options and gave them advice on how to get into PR or other creative industries.

Although the event was primarily about apprenticeships, we also told a few people about the Career Academy programme and Nadia was able to give first-hand advice on her experiences so far.

Nadia says: “The event was a great opportunity for me to represent my course and give other people an insight into what it’s like. I think it’s important to give the student perspective, not just the teacher’s or employer’s view.”

Interested in a career in marketing and sales within the property sector, Nadia was also able to see what it’s like to be involved in exhibiting at an event and she helped me set up our table.

“I also saw that a lot of preparation goes into putting on an event like this, including the planning and the set up,” Nadia continues. “I discovered that Jane couldn’t simply turn up; she had to make sure she had plenty of leaflets and business cards, contact the industry bodies for information on careers in PR and create some handouts to bring with her.”

Nadia also learned about the importance of networking: “As well as finding out more about working in PR myself, I saw how networking can help your career. Jane made a useful contact and I also spoke to someone who used to be an estate agent, who gave me some useful tips and advice.”

I sit on the College’s advisory board for their Career Academy, which helps students bridge the gap between education and work. The two-year programme gives those aged 16-19 valuable access to employers, work experience placements, masterclasses and workshops and helps them build their professional network, alongside Level 3 BTEC study (equivalent to 3 A Levels).

For more information on the Career Academy programme, visit the Career Academies UK website and to find out more about PR apprenticeships, see the PRCA’s Apprenticeship programme.