QAC Celebrates National Careers Week 2026

Our students took part in a week of inspiring talks, workshops and hands-on activities as the college celebrated National Careers Week from 2nd–6th March.

It was an insightful week filled with amazing opportunities for our students to explore future possibilities, build confidence and connect with professionals from a wide range of industries. Throughout the week, guest speakers, employers, alumni and staff worked together to help students think about their next steps and the many pathways available to them.

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One of our students shared that the highlight of the week was a visit to the Treasure Box, where students experienced what working in retail might involve. Design and Production student David M shared:

“We went to the Treasure Box to see what it would be like working there. We got to try the tills and price up items, but my favourite activity was decorating the Easter display. I really enjoyed my time there and think it’s a great experience for Careers Week.”

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David also explained that the experience helped him develop important workplace skills, including communication, teamwork, decision-making and problem-solving, while working with students from other groups.

Across the college, students took part in sessions that introduced them to real-world career experiences, while also learning practical life skills such as financial resilience, self-advocacy and preparation for life beyond education. Inspirational speakers, including former QAC students, also shared their personal journeys, showing learners how their time at college can lead to many different opportunities.

The week also highlighted strong collaboration across departments, with staff supporting sessions, facilitating workshops and encouraging conversations about future ambitions across campus.

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By the end of the week, students had engaged with professionals from many different sectors, helping them broaden their understanding of the world of work and inspiring them to think positively about their next steps.

Guest speakers and visitors during National Careers Week at QAC:

  • What is a QAC Supported Internship- John McDougall
  • Self-Advocacy Workshop - Charlie Stonham (Ex Student, QAC Trustee)
  • Financial Resilience Workshop – Careers Transform Ltd
  • A Day in the Life of…a Solicitor/Journey into Law – know your rights! With Michaela Brown & Melissa Burrows from Clyde & Co
  • ‘Have a Go’ – Working in Retail - Haley Case
  • A Day in the Life of…a Police Officer, WMP – PC Marc Greaves & PC Rob Felton
  • “Stretch to Success!” - QAC Physio
  • Student Council Open Door – ‘My Future’  - Student Council REPs
  • A Day in the Life of…Working in Residential/What Supported Living Looks Like (Tour) - Paul McDonald
  • Open Theatre Workshops – Jenara Miles & Luke Greenwood 
  • Newlands Bishop Farm – Richard Fitzgerald & Siobhan Burns
  • ‘Have a Go’ – Working in Hospitality - Nicki Coleman
  • A Day in the Life of…a Comedian – Josh Pugh
  • Inspirational Speaker - Jono Davies (Ex Student)
  • A Day in the Life of…Working in the Games Industry (making sound effects) - Marie Stock
  • Guest Speaker - Olivia Rabjohn (West Brom Albion Women's Football Captain)
  • Calm Careers Onsite - Nicki Hamilton
  • A Day in the Life of…Marketing Manager - Scott Mills (Latham's Steel Doors)
  •  QAC Community Services Provision – How to Apply, What is it? - Gill Leno / Peter Grail
  • A Day in the Life of...The Secret Life of a Journalist – Tim Jeffries
  • Online Inspirational Speaker! - Alexandra McCarthy (ex QAC student)
  • SENSE Basecamp Day Services- Sajda and Yazdan
  • Newman University-  Dr Claire Monk

We extend our thanks to all the speakers, visitors, students and colleagues who contributed to making the week such a success, helping students at QAC feel more confident and prepared as they plan their futures.