Students at Woodham Academy got their first taste of life in the working world last week by attending mock interviews given by a variety of local employers.
The Year 11 students who are due to leave next year have been preparing for what may be a real life scenario in the coming months as many begin applications for college and further education.
Organised by Durham Education Business Partner-ship (EBP), the day was an opportunity for students to enhance their employability skills, bringing together representatives from the business world and the students for an enriched learning experience.
During the day, students practised interview questions and learned how to showcase their skills. The students dressed to impress in sharp suits and dresses, hoping to make a good impression.
Helen Johnson, livin Futures Manager said: ‘This is a really useful and beneficial exercise for the students as they get a lot out of it. Many have never had an interview before and from an employer’s point of view it’s great to be able to offer tips and advice so that students can sell themselves and hopefully this will result in a successful outcome in the future.’
One student who attended his first interview was Adam Byrne who said ‘I was a little nervous as I’ve never had an interview before but I do have an interview for college soon so I am glad I had the chance to do this first, I think I did well overall.’
The Academy thanks the 12 employers involved; livin, Bishop Auckland College, HMRC, Esh Group, Hall Garth Hotel and Country Club, New College Durham, Northumbrian Water, Optimum Skills, Caterpillar, Durham University, Hitachi and Red Box Promotions.

Yr  11 Mock Interviews Dec 15