Year 13 Mock Interview Day: Building Confidence and Skills for the Future
On Friday 6th December, St Mary’s hosted its annual Year 13 Mock Interview Day, offering students a valuable opportunity to experience a professional interview setting for the first time. For many of the students, this was their first taste of what a real interview entails, and although there were plenty of nerves, the day proved to be an enriching and confidence-boosting experience for all involved.
Each student took part in a one-on-one interview conducted by members of the St Mary’s community and visiting employers, who graciously volunteered their time to support our students. These experienced professionals provided detailed feedback after the interviews, offering praise for strong performances and constructive advice for areas of improvement.
The feedback proved invaluable, with students gaining new insights into their strengths and how to effectively showcase their skills. Here’s what some of the students had to say about their experience:
- “It’s not about getting everything right; it’s about showcasing the truthful skills you know you have.”
- “I learnt what skills employers look for.”
- “I have gained confidence in speaking to others about myself.”
- “I learned the importance of preparing answers beforehand so I wouldn’t waste time thinking.”
- “I learned how to articulate my thoughts and achievements in a clear manner.”
- “I was able to identify my strengths and weaknesses.”
The event also highlighted the importance of careers education as an integral part of the curriculum at St Mary’s. Events like these not only help students prepare for their future but also encourage them to reflect on their skills, achievements, and goals. This preparation is invaluable as they take their next steps into higher education, apprenticeships, or the working world.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part in this event. Their generosity and expertise played a crucial role in making the day a success and ensuring that our students received the guidance they need to thrive in their future endeavours.
The Mock Interview Day is more than just a one-day event—it’s a stepping stone towards greater confidence, self-awareness, and readiness for the professional world. These opportunities enrich our students’ time at St Mary’s, helping them grow into confident, capable individuals ready to take on life’s challenges.
We look forward to continuing this tradition and fostering the development of our future leaders. Thank you to everyone who made this day such a success!
