On Wednesday 21 May, we were delighted to host the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), who delivered a careers workshop to some of our year 10 students. The DWP is a civil service department of the government, responsible for welfare, pensions, and child maintenance policy. They are also a major employer in Nottinghamshire.
The workshop began with an introduction, followed by a group activity in which students discussed the qualities employers look for during the recruitment process. This was followed by an ice-breaker challenge involving the ‘helium stick’ game — a team-building activity where participants must collectively lower a lightweight stick to the ground while maintaining contact with it using only their index fingers. The exercise is designed to highlight the importance of teamwork, communication, and leadership in achieving a seemingly simple goal.
In the final part of the workshop, students took part in the Holgate fashion show. They were split into two teams and tasked with creating an item of clothing using limited resources. Students then modelled and presented their creations to the group and a panel of judges. After much deliberation, the judging panel selected a winning team who had designed a dress and accessories using the materials provided.
Well done to everyone who took part — especially our winning group! All students were enthusiastic and fully engaged especially during the practical elements of the workshop.
