Hundreds of pupils explore international career opportunities at German Career Roadshow
Almost 300 pupils from across Scotland explored how studying languages can lead to careers in engineering, technology, business, tourism, journalism and higher education at the German Career Roadshow, hosted at Forth Valley College yesterday (Thursday 24 September).
Falkirk Council helped bring the national roadshow to the area, working with the Goethe-Institut to connect pupils with employers, universities and cultural organisations from Scotland, the UK and Germany.
The event also supported the Council’s wider work with schools to promote language learning and help pupils understand where those skills can take them beyond the classroom.
Pupils took part in workshops, taster sessions, panel discussions and a careers fair, with a focus on how languages can support future study, work and travel opportunities. German Consul General Christiane Hullmann also attended, along with representatives from education and industry.
Pupils from six Falkirk Council secondary schools played an active part in the day, with senior Language Ambassadors from Graeme High School, Bo’ness Academy, Braes High School, Falkirk High School, St Mungo’s High School and Larbert High School helping welcome visitors and support workshops.
The ambassadors are senior pupils studying languages, including French, Spanish and German. They took part in workshops and presentations, interviewed presenters and stallholders, and will meet again after the event to discuss the strongest arguments they heard for studying German. They will also look at how they can promote language learning more widely. Two pupils who studied film and screen last year recorded the interviews to make a short film.
Jon Reid, Director of Education, said:
It was fantastic to see so many young people from across Scotland taking part in this event and making the most of the chance to speak directly with employers, universities and organisations from a range of sectors.
"One of the most valuable aspects of the day was seeing pupils discover how language skills can be combined with interests in areas such as engineering, business, technology and tourism.
"My thanks go to the Goethe-Institut and all of the partners who helped make the event possible, as well as the pupils whose enthusiasm and participation made the day such a success.