Bradford College Hosts Third Annual Speed Mentoring Event

Students and professionals engage in career-focused discussions

Bradford College recently held its third annual Speed Mentoring Event at The Grove Restaurant in the David Hockney Building. The event brought together students and professionals from various sectors for a series of brief, focused conversations aimed at supporting students in exploring career options and developing confidence.

Event format and participants

The Speed Mentoring Event featured a fast-paced format where students participated in multiple 10-minute discussions with mentors. These mentors came from diverse fields including business, education, law, sport, public services, energy, and community organisations. Employers present included representatives from Yorkshire Water, Bradford Council, the Race Equality Network, Parliament, and the energy sector.

Purpose and outcomes

The event was designed to provide students with real-world insights into different career paths and to encourage reflection on their future options. Many students found value in hearing about the varied career journeys of mentors, which often included both successes and setbacks. This approach aimed to create an open environment focused on resilience, life skills, and personal growth.

• Students had the opportunity to ask questions and discuss challenges related to their career aspirations.
• Mentors shared experiences that highlighted the non-linear nature of career development.
• Advice on confidence and communication was emphasised, including practical tips on language use during interviews.

Feedback from participants

Students reported that the event helped them think more clearly about their next steps and the importance of confident language. One student noted the impact of changing phrases like “I will” to “I am” to convey greater self-belief.

Mentors also expressed positive impressions of the students’ maturity and ambition. Some highlighted the foresight shown by students in having multiple plans for their futures. Others recognised the determination of learners to overcome social disadvantages and pursue their goals.

Event significance and future plans

Alina, Vice Principal for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Bradford College, emphasised the mutual benefits of the event for both students and employers. She noted that the event provides industry professionals with insight into the potential of the future workforce while offering students a chance to reflect and find their own solutions.

With each student engaging in approximately six mentoring conversations, the event aimed to expose learners to a broad range of experiences and career perspectives. The college plans to continue expanding the event in future years, involving more partners and participants.

For further information about supporting students as an employer, interested parties are encouraged to visit the college’s website.