Creative industry professionals gathered at a Barrow school this week for a workshop to inspire students to consider career opportunities in the sector.
Year 8 pupils at Chetwynde School heard from professionals including sportswear designers, artists, illustrators, musicians and fashion buyers who shared insights into their roles as part of the school’s Creative Careers Day.
The pupils had a chance to take part in activities and find out about future careers.
Teacher Charlotte Strafford, who led the event, said the UK’s creative industries contribute over £115 billion annually to the national economy.
She said: “We have really strong subjects in the creative sector at Chetwynde – including art and drama – but also implement creativity across all our disciplines.
“It’s important to bridge the gap between education and industry and show our pupils that there are dynamic careers where they can turn their passions into a paid role.”
University of Cumbria PGCE student Chloe Wilson is on placement at Chetwynde School, part of South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust, and helped to organise the event.
She said it aimed to showcase the breadth of creative careers and highlight the sector’s significant economic and cultural importance, encouraging students to pursue their creative ambitions.
She added: “We wanted to show students the incredible diversity of creative career paths and demonstrate how their artistic skills can translate into meaningful professional opportunities. It has been so positive with the pupils enjoying themselves while learning so much about careers.”
