Last week, our Year 13s took part in the annual My Future Self Day. 

Students were fortunate to have old boy Rob Farrell speak to them about his transition from school into a property development career. He spoke about his career choices, what influenced those choices, and the lessons he has learnt through life so far.

The intensity of the talk was measured by the silence of the boys in the auditorium, as they heard about the amazingly successful career Rob had carved out for himself and the personal costs along the way. He laid bare how the value system you hold close to your heart influences your decisions and how you have to live with the choices you make. He spoke about diversity of career and incorporating technology into industry, as well as giving more to the job than your employer expects of you. He reminded students that employers take the risk in employing you, so don’t let them down. Rob reflected on the opportunities that had developed for him and how he had grown from these, learning and acquiring new knowledge in every job. He talked about the importance of identifying what drives you as an individual to work harder and when to recognise the signs to step back. Rob challenged the boys not to compare themselves to others, but to know themselves, know their values and faith, and keep those things close to their hearts as they move through their own career cycle.

Michelle, Jude, and the rest of the wonderful Zest People team ran four sessions over the rest of the morning, requiring the boys to learn a little bit more about themselves, their personality, and passions when it comes to career choice. They also led the boys through workshops on networking, tools and skills used in interviewing, and putting their best foot forward.

In the afternoon, more than 40 careers professionals gave up their time to speak to the boys about their specific careers; giving advice on training pathways, different jobs with the career, opportunities available, and how to best prepare for transitioning out of school. They were also able to speak informally about the day-to-day operation and tasks involved. This gave the boys the opportunity to network and make future decisions about their career direction for when they leave school.

It was wonderful to have some old boys of the college speak to the students about what they did when leaving school. In particular, we would like to thank Rob Farrell (1990-1994), Josh Back (2009-2013), Joshua Shipley (2014-2018), Alex Caddick (2009-2013), Chris Starr (2011-2015), and Jack Bell (2012-2016). We would also like to thank the St Bede's College Old Boys' Association, which generously sponsors this event for the college.

If you wish to be part of this day next year and be part of the Careers Speed Dating Event, please contact school and let us know. We would enjoy hosting you.