A FORMER Palmer's College student made a virtual return to the sixth form campus recently as one of a number of representatives from industry and professions to share their knowledge with current students.

Paediatric nurse Claire Battersby said: "It was really enjoyable to talk to young people interested in a career in healthcare. It is something I'm so passionate about. It was exciting to think I was talking to nurses of the future. They asked some great questions and seemed really keen to learn more about the roles and responsibilities of a nursing career."

USP College, which operates Palmer's alongside its Seevic Campus at Benfleet, runs continuous professional development (CPD) days for all students so they can learn about career opportunities.

Students were able to attend a range of sessions that were taking place that included live virtual talks with industry experts or even complete an industry-accredited qualification, like Level 2 and 3 BTEC sport students who completed their basic first aid training.

Level 3 sport and exercise science student Jake Draper, said: "I want to be a PE teaching assistant when I finish my college course and I can use what I learnt about first aid within my career. The CPD Days have given me experiences that I can put on my CV which can boost my chance of getting a job, it is also good to have additional qualifications too."

The College welcomed a host of speakers on the day including artist and photographer Kane Waiwaku, chartered engineer Marie-Anne Cowan, pharmacist Jennifer Adam, solution-focused hypnotherapist Keeley Smith and business owner Mark Smith, to name a few.

Throughout the live sessions students were encouraged to ask questions to support their onward journeys.

Level 3 media production student Emily Holder said: "I particularly enjoyed being taught the basic and the depths of how to build my perfect portfolio for potential university applications or job interviews, as it teaches me about the real world and gives me the motivation to 'go big or go home'."

This CPD day was designed specifically for the college's vocational students. A-Level students will have their CPD Day on Friday, 26 March.

To find out more about the College's CPD Days, or if you could support an upcoming day, click here.