Let’s CHat: Degree Apprenticeships is part of a series of industry networking events for Old Waconians, current pupils and their parents.

Thinking about skipping university for a hands-on route? Want to gain a degree while working and earning a salary? Or simply curious about the wide range of industries offering apprenticeships today?

Join us for an inspiring panel discussion featuring industry professionals, who will share their real-world career journeys, lessons learned, and top advice for getting ahead.

What to expect:

• Real stories: Discover how industry insiders navigated their own practical career paths.
• Informal networking: Put your networking skills into practice and chat directly with professionals over light refreshments.
• Clarity on your next steps: Whether you know your exact path or are just exploring, leave with clear insights into your options.

Can you share your insight?

If you work in an industry that offers apprenticeships, or are currently completing one and would be willing to share your experiences and lessons learned, please get in touch by emailing er@chschool.co.uk. We'd love to invite you to either be on our panel, or join us to network with attendees.

Panellists

Grace Woosey (Class of 2022) - Civil Engineering Degree Apprentice, AtkinsRéalis and a member of the CHS Alumni Board

Nicholas Wills (Industry) - Apprenticeship Development Manager, AtkinsRéalis 

River Nayak (Class of 2025) - Degree Apprentice, BNY

Grace Stratford-Smith (Class of 2023) - Business & Marketing Executive Apprentice, EVP Solutions Limited.

Casper Poorhady (Class of 2024) - Analytical Science Degree Apprentice, AstraZeneca

Eva Pearce (Class of 2025) - Business Management Degree Apprentice, DS Smith

Kevin Gedge (Parent) - Systems Engineering & Assurance Discipline Lead, Systra UK&Ireland and an End Point Assessor for Level 7 Systems Engineering degree apprenticeships. 

Dominic Kehoe / Naomi Madeley - Recruitment & Admissions Team (Apprenticeship Focus), Manchester Metropolitan University