A Liverpool secondary school has been preparing students for the world of work, with mock interviews with some of the UK’s biggest employers.

St John Bosco Arts College, an all-girls Catholic secondary school in Croxteth, hosted the ‘employability’ event to help students prepare for the recruitment process.

Organised with Liverpool Compact EBP, which works throughout Liverpool to deliver training programmes and work experience, the two day event provided a real life view of what the interview process actually entails.

Debbie Kenrick, enterprise manager of Liverpool Compact, says:

“The event has been a huge success, and we have had such positive feedback from the girls.

“In today’s competitive world it is essential that students realise employers are not just looking for good examination results. Candidates need to make sure they are comfortable and confident throughout the recruitment process, which can be tough. Hopefully, the girls at St John Bosco will now feel that they have a head start in the employability game.”

Over 12 employers took part over the two days, including representatives from Barclays, American Airlines, South Liverpool Homes, Knowsley Community College, Liverpool Chamber Training, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool John Moores University, PwC and Edge Hill University.

Jackie Bishop, from South Liverpool Homes, says:

“The interviews were very worthwhile and enjoyable, I felt I learned from the experience. I would have loved more time with the students which demonstrates how good it was to be part of this initiative.”

During the day, Year 11 students completed an application form outlining their hobbies, interests and job ideas which formed the basis of the interviews, with real life scenarios based on their chosen career paths.

Olivia Castley, a student at St John Bosco, says:

“It was really good. My feedback helped me to understand what to do in a real interview.”

Employers were then able to give the girls feedback on their one on one interviews, with advice on how to improve in the future, when it comes to gaining future employment or a place in further education.

Girls were advised on the content and quality of their application form, on the promotion of their personal skills and attributes, as well as their body language and verbal communication.