Universities and Careers Host the Annual Next Steps Fair

The Universities and Careers Department hosted its annual Next Steps Fair for Lower Sixth boys and their parents, providing an opportunity for boys to consolidate their decisions for beyond Tonbridge.

What was once a ‘Universities Evening’ has evolved into a ‘Next Steps Fair,’ to now include international universities alongside UK based institutions, information about degree apprenticeships, gap year opportunities, and work experience support.

The event also welcomed Lower Sixth students from 14 local secondary schools, resulting in over 500 guests in attendance.

Portia King, Tonbridge School’s Careers Adviser, reflected that, “It was a pleasure to see students engaging with universities from across England, Wales, the US, and Europe. Interest in different pathways is growing, and there will be more opportunities to explore options at our Degree Apprenticeships Evening in early March.”

The demand for gap year and work experience advice was also notable, with providers throughout the evening reporting a “busy and productive event”.

The evening concluded with an array of informative talks in the EM Forster Theatre, covering topics including the UK and overseas university application process. Guests included Durham University’s Student Recruitment Assistant Manager, Lucy McCabe, and David Hawkins from The University Guys.

Attendees left with their Tonbridge School tote bags overflowing with prospectuses, motivated to take their next steps.