Interview practice for Exeter School sixth formers

Exeter School Sixth Formers got a taste of the working world when they experienced two weekends of practice interviews.

The Upper Sixth Formers were interviewed by local and national professionals, including Exeter School alumni, at Gilbert Stephens LLP Solicitors and the Research, Innovation, Learning and Development (RILD) building in Exeter.

Every year, during late September and early October, Exeter School’s Upper Sixth pupils are given the chance to experience a general interview away from school.

Every effort is made to match the pupil to an interviewer with similar interests, for example potential medical students with doctors.

Each pupil is interviewed twice and interviews are followed by an evaluation session. All pupils complete an 'application form' which is sent to the interviewers prior to the meeting.

Head of Sixth Form Mrs Alison Marsh said: “All members of the Upper Sixth are invited to take part in what is a unique opportunity for them to practise interview techniques and to improve their presentation skills, which will be extremely useful as they enter the world of work.

“Making a good first impression and being given advice by experienced professionals on developing these skills in a safe interview environment is invaluable.

“The success of the programme depends much on the goodwill of the interviewers, who kindly give up their free time to help many of them for both weekends, and the generosity of Gilbert Stephens LLP Solicitors, for the use of their offices, and the RILD Centre.

“I must add my thanks to Careers Adviser Mrs Ruth Cheesman, who has coordinated the scheme this year.”

Careers Adviser Ruth Cheesman said: “Having an interview such as this is invaluable as it allows pupils to experience what it is like in the professional world. As they say ‘practise makes perfect’.”
Almost 110 Upper Sixth pupils have been interviewed twice in total.