Cheadle Hulme School recently hosted the latest instalment of its industry networking series, Let’s CHat: Degree Apprenticeships, bringing together Old Waconians, current students and parents.

Designed to demystify alternative higher education routes, the event shed light on how degree apprenticeships compare to the traditional university pathway. Through candid insights and real-world success stories, attendees gained clarity on their options while honing their networking skills for the future.

Our distinguished panel featured Old Waconians at various stages of their apprenticeship journeys, alongside leading representatives from AstraZeneca, Systra UK & Ireland, AtkinsRéalis, and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU). Together, they offered a complete 360-degree view of the sector, from employer expectations and university partnerships to the day-to-day realities of balancing work and study.

Following an engaging Q&A, guests headed to the Sixth Form Centre for informal networking. This allowed students to build confidence, chat one-to-one with panellists, and ask tailored questions about their career aspirations.

A heartfelt thank you to all our panellists for sharing their time and expertise, and a special thanks to the Old Waconians who returned to CHS to guide and inspire our next generation: Grace Woosey (Class of 2022), River Nayak (Class of 2025), Grace Stratford-Smith (Class of 2023), Casper Poorhady (Class of 2024), Eva Pearce (Class of 2025) and Zak George (Class of 2026)

If you would like to support our pupils by sharing your career journey, get in touch with the External Relations team to find out how volunteering your time can make a lasting impact: er@chschool.co.uk