Year 10 students from Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School in Greenford took a break from the classroom last week to explore potential career paths at a careers fair where they met with employers, colleges and training providers.
Among the organisations taking part was Specsavers, whose team offered insights into careers in optometry and audiology.
Organised by Connexions Ealing, the event brought together local businesses, apprenticeship providers, and education institutions to help 14- and 15-year-old students consider their options. One stand was hosted by Specsavers Greenford Broadway, whose team shared advice and career insights from the world of eye and ear health.
Padmarekha Halubai, retail director at the store, said: “We were delighted to be invited to support the careers fair. With the vast choice of work and study options available these days, including apprenticeships and blended learning approaches with on-the-job training, the event provided a great forum for the pupils to chat directly with businesses and find out more about a particular profession first-hand.
“As an organisation, Specsavers is very good at offering staff the chance to train in different areas of the business, including the career pathway programme to become a store partner.”
Joining Ms Halubai were dispensing optometrist Deepali Poojara, pre-registration optometrist, and audiologist apprentice Jemma O’Hara – each offering personal experience of Specsavers’ training and development programmes.
Students visiting the Specsavers stand received a Specsavers tote bag filled with information about eye and ear care and future opportunities with the high street chain.
Councillor Josh Blacker, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for a fairer start, praised the initiative: “It’s fantastic to see local businesses engaging directly with young people and helping them explore the wide range of career paths available to them.”
He added: “Careers fairs are vital in opening doors and raising aspirations and I’m proud Ealing Council supports initiatives that empower our students to make informed choices about their futures.”
