Meet the Experts Opens Doors to Future Career Possibilities

King’s recently hosted a ‘Meet the Experts’ evening for Lower Sixth pupils, which was an inspiring event designed to help pupils think proactively about their futures and the many pathways open to them after King’s.

The evening brought together a diverse group of professionals from a wide range of sectors, offering pupils the opportunity to engage in open conversations about career journeys, professional decision‑making, and the realities of working in different industries. In an informal, small‑group setting, pupils were able to ask questions, seek advice, and gain first‑hand insight into careers they may be considering, and some they may not yet have explored.

We were grateful to welcome experts from law, finance, engineering, healthcare, policing, land management, communications, and sports psychology, including several Old Aluredians, who returned to King’s to share their experiences of life after school:

• Emma Martin, Criminal Barrister, Albion Chambers
• Ben Hiles (OA), Founder & Director, Ben Hiles Wealth Management
• Tristan Sly and Andy Johns, Engineering and Environmental specialists, Stantec
• Dr Ashok Subramanian, Orthopaedic Spinal Surgeon, Somerset NHS Trust & Nuffield Health
• Chief Inspector Rebecca Wells Cole (OA), Avon & Somerset Police
• Ian Firth, MD, Rural Planning, Design & Property Specialist, Bondstones
• Oli Cox (OA), Creative Director & Co‑Founder, Brandvox
• Marcus Nel, Sports Psychologist and Founder, Ahead for the Game

Throughout the evening, pupils explored subjects ranging from university routes and apprenticeships to entrepreneurship, vocational training, and career progression. Speakers spoke candidly about the skills and attributes needed in their professions, the challenges they faced along the way, and how pupils can begin preparing now for their next steps.

Events such as Meet the Experts are a key part of King’s commitment to pupils pupils futures and forward‑thinking about careers. By connecting pupils with industry professionals and alumni, the King’s helps pupils develop a broader understanding of the options available to them, empowering them to make informed choices that align with their interests, strengths, and ambitions.

As pupils move through the Sixth Form, King’s continues to support them with careers guidance, higher education preparation, and opportunities to engage with the world beyond the classroom.