This week, our Year 9 cohort embarked on an enriching and highly informative visit to Victrex, a world-leading manufacturer of high-performance materials. The trip offered a fantastic opportunity for students to gain first-hand insight into the manufacturing process of the company's renowned PEEK product and to explore the diverse range of career paths available within a major, innovative corporation.
Behind the Scenes: From Polymer to Product
The morning kicked off with a comprehensive factory tour, allowing students to see the large-scale manufacturing operations in action. This hands-on experience was complemented by discussions with key Victrex employees who shared details about their roles. Students heard directly from a Shift Manager and a member of the Quality Assurance team, gaining a clear understanding of the varied skills and responsibilities required to maintain high standards in a high-tech manufacturing environment.
Apprentices Share Their Journeys
A highlight of the visit was a dedicated session with two of Victrex's inspiring apprentices, Jasmine and Mac. They spoke candidly about their personal career journeys, explaining why they chose the apprenticeship route and what a typical day looks like for them.
Jasmine and Mac not only shared their experiences but also offered invaluable tips and advice to the students regarding the apprenticeship application process. Their message resonated strongly with the Year 9 pupils, demonstrating that a rewarding career in science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing (STEM) is well within their reach.
We extend our sincere thanks to the entire team at Victrex for generously offering this engaging and highly valuable experience to our students. Exposure to real-world applications of STEM subjects and direct interaction with industry professionals is crucial for shaping the career aspirations of our young people.
