Last week, a group of creative Year 12 students from The John Roan School in Greenwich got a sneak peek into Burberry’s headquarters in London.

The visit was just one of a number of industry insight workshops that students have had access to over the course of the academic year, as part of the school’s rich and exciting careers programme. With fashion representing a £26 billion industry in the UK, the day was a fascinating insight into some of the wide-ranging skilled roles offered – from designers, buyers and visual merchandisers to those in finance and advertising.

The John Roan Sixth Formers heard from industry experts about their jobs and careers, as well as tested their own creativity and natural flair for business. Testing themselves in a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style challenge, the students had to build on what they had learnt throughout the day’s talks from the experts to design and create their own product.

The trip was organised through the school’s ongoing partnership with The Eze Foundation – a charity founded by John Roan alumni and footballers Ikechi and Ebere Eze, that aims to provide career opportunities for school children in London.

A student at The John Roan School, who went on the visit, said:

“The trip was really good, I'd rate it 9/10 as it is showed me the various careers that are involved with Burberry.”

Another said:

“I didn't realise there were so many different exciting careers with Burberry - I just thought it was fashion.”

Cath Smith, Principal at The John Roan School, said:

“We work hard to give our students the best chance for success – not just academically but in providing an array of experiences to help them consider future career pathways. This was a particularly exciting opportunity to visit what is an iconic British brand in a vibrant industry with so many different skillsets and roles.

“We’re grateful to The Eze Foundation for their ongoing work with our students, as we look to inspire and challenge them. Thank you also to Burberry for hosting us for a wonderful day.”