Ash Manor School

Ash Manor Blog

Careers Fair

On Tuesday 24th June, Ash Manor School opened its doors to a world of opportunity, hosting its first ever Careers Fair. From the moment students from Years 7 to 10 stepped into the hall, the buzz of curiosity and ambition filled the air. Rows of tables lined the space, each one manned by a representative from a post-16 institution or a leading organisation, ready to share their story — and maybe, spark someone else’s.

For some students, it was the hands-on display from Surrey Fire and Rescue Service that drew them in — helmets tried on, climbing ladders discussed, and a glimpse into the high-adrenaline life of emergency response. For others, it was a quiet but inspiring conversation with a nurse from Frimley Park Hospital, explaining the many different careers within the NHS, from paramedics and radiographers to physiotherapists and surgeons.

Guildford Shakespeare Company added a creative twist to the day, talking to students about careers in the arts and performance, while encouraging them to think about the power of storytelling in every field, even performing an ensemble with our Sister Act Crew.

Multiple students were absorbed in conversations with representatives from BAE Systems, asking questions about engineering apprenticeships and future technologies.

Just a few steps away, students gathered with Surrey Police, learning not only about being an officer but also about the wide variety of roles in forensics, digital crime, and community safety. Others were drawn to Matrix Charity, where they learned how people can build careers by supporting and empowering others — a powerful message of purpose and impact.

Alongside industry experts, students also spoke with local colleges and sixth form providers, learning about A-Levels, apprenticeships, vocational training, and specialist courses. It was a fantastic opportunity to start thinking about future options and ask questions about what life looks like beyond Year 11.

By connecting education with the world of work, Ash Manor continues to support students in becoming confident, informed, and ambitious about their futures.

Ash Manor would like to praise all students who attended for their impeccable behaviour and give a huge thank you to all our volunteers from the local community who attended and supported on the day.

 

Ash Manor Students Complete Challenging Bronze DofE Expedition – 7th & 8th June 2025

Fifty-one students from Ash Manor School recently took part in their Assessed Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Expedition, a true test of resilience, teamwork, and determination.

 

The expedition began in a car park just outside Shalford, with students walking over 15km through the South Downs National Park to their overnight campsite at Bentley Copse Scout Camp. Travelling in small teams of no more than 7, the students faced the added challenge of persistent heavy rain throughout much of the first day. Spirits remained high, however, as the students navigated their routes — even with a few minor detours along the way!

 

Arriving at camp soaked and tired, they still had to pitch their tents, cook a hot evening meal, and care for their sore feet, all while keeping morale up in less-than-ideal conditions. It was an impressive effort from everyone involved, especially given the knowledge that they’d be travelling back via a different route to the start point the following morning.

  

Thankfully, the weather was kinder on Sunday. The sun broke through, helping to dry kit and lift spirits as teams set off for the final leg of their expedition. Once again, despite a few small navigational errors, all groups made it back to the original meeting point — tired, proud, and rightly pleased with what they had achieved.

 

 

 We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the teachers, support staff and volunteers, who acted as the DofE assessors and supervisors and gave up their time to support the students throughout the weekend. These expeditions would not be possible without their commitment and dedication.

 All in all, it was a hugely positive experience, with many students now feeling inspired to take on the Silver DofE Award next year!

  

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