On Monday 10 June, 2024, a group of sixth form students from Christ the King Sixth Form in Lewisham and Sidcup embarked on a journey from South London to The City of London for the Talent Accelerator workshop. Accompanied by their teachers, including Irene Youngs, the students were eager to gain valuable skills and knowledge that would prepare them for their future careers and help their schools reach the Gatsby Benchmarks 5 & 6, which focus on providing students with encounters with employers and experiences in the workplace. These benchmarks are particularly important for those pursuing T-Levels.
The workshop was held at the London Stock Exchange’s stylish offices in Paternoster Square, where the students were treated to stunning views of St Paul’s cathedral and were able to relax in break-out areas furnished with comfortable sofas, cushions, and bean-to-cup coffee machines. The immaculate open plan kitchens were also a sight to behold.
The day began with the students being tasked with creating the perfect CV, followed by lessons on how to navigate mock interviews and networking tips. They then had the opportunity to put these skills into practice with LSEG employees. But the learning didn’t stop there – the students were also given the chance to deliver presentations.
The highlight of the day was a keynote speech by Tony Baldwin, Global Head of Collateral & Liquidity Management at LCH (London Clearing House), a London Stock Exchange Group business. Baldwin, who originally hails from South London, shared his career journey with the students, inspiring and motivating them with his insights into his role at LSEG.
The students also had the privilege of hearing from LSEG Legal Counsels Amruta Sawarka and Santushti Kalra, who provided them with valuable tips on presentation skills and shared their own career journeys in the legal field.
David Sol, Head of Policy & Managing Director at FTSE Russell, conducted a workshop on Empathic Accuracy & Presentation Negotiation, which challenged the students to think critically and also competed with each other.
After the workshop, the students shared their thoughts:
– 100% of them felt more confident about interviews
– 100% of students learned about workplace values and new career pathways
– 100% of students felt they had improved their communication and presentation skills
“I gained key skills from this event and will use them in my day-to-day life.”
“I really got an understanding of the business workplace.”
“It enabled me to improve in certain areas that I find difficult.”
“We are so grateful to everyone who made this event possible,” said Dianne Johnson, Head of Programmes at Urban Synergy. “We would like to thank the LSEG employees, teachers, and students who took time out of their busy schedules to invest in brighter and more equitable futures. We are also thankful to Catherine Johnson and the LSEG Foundation for their support and for living their values and promoting diversity. We are fortunate to have them as our partner.”
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.