Pupils from Deyes High School in Maghull were given the chance to examine their future career options at a day long convention bringing together local, regional and international organisations.

The young people spoke with local health commissioners from NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and many other professionals about the fantastic career paths open to them once their school days are over.

The CCG was amongst a host of organisations on hand - including Aintree Hospital, Jaguar Land Rover, Northumbria University, Hugh Baird College and Hays recruitment - to give advice about apprenticeship schemes, internships and further education.

Helen Knowles, business & partnerships director at Lydiate Learning Trust, said: “The careers convention offered pupils the opportunity to connect with employers and education providers face to face to help them inform their future decisions. Taking part in the mock interviews gave pupils an insight into how they should present themselves at an interview and helped them to identify their key strengths and areas for development. A huge thanks to our partners for making the day such a success and helping our students fulfil their potential.”

Students could explore a variety of different stalls talking to the various professionals. The event included a live performance from newly formed local band ‘Girl talk’ and a dance troop from Studio 76 Performing Arts College on West Derby Road.

Students then had the chance to take part in a mock interview where they faced a small panel of teachers and professionals, giving them the opportunity to practice their interviewing skills.

Angela Curran, commissioning manager from NHS South Sefton CCG, said: “People often don’t realise the range of careers that the NHS offers in addition to medical roles. The pupils I spoke to were surprised and interested to hear about the work we do in the CCG and the internships and apprenticeships that could be an option for them across the NHS.”

You can find out more about NHS South Sefton CCG and its work to plan and buy or ‘commission’ nearly all local healthcare by visiting its website at http://www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk/ or twitter at @NHSSSCCG.