Portsmouth High School recently held an exciting Digital Directions Careers Day, bringing together students, educators, and industry experts for a day of immersive learning and innovation. The event featured a diverse lineup of activities and workshops, aimed at inspiring the next generation of tech enthusiasts.
The Careers Day kicked off with an Ask The Expert panel from industry experts including a leading game designers, who shared insights into the creative process behind some of the most popular video games. Students were captivated by the blend of art and technology that goes into game development, sparking interest in potential careers in the gaming industry.
Representatives from NATS (National Air Traffic Services) and BAE Systems provided students with a glimpse into the world of aerospace and defence technology. Their presentations highlighted the critical role of digital technology in ensuring safety and efficiency in air traffic management and defence systems. Students were particularly intrigued by the real-world applications of the technologies discussed. The focus on degree apprenticeships as an alternative to university was an added bonus.
AI specialist, Dr Johanna Walker spoke on the future of artificial intelligence, exploring its impact on various industries and everyday life. The discussion covered everything from machine learning to ethical considerations in AI development, encouraging students to think critically about the technology shaping their future.
The panel was followed by a Q&A session where the pupils from Year 7- Year 13 were able to speak to the digital experts one to one.
The day featured a series of hands-on workshops designed to engage students in practical applications of digital technology:
Hackathon Workshop: Year 9 students had the opportunity to create a hangman games programme in Python under the expert tutelage of Anupama Beena from Xero.
Robotics Workshop: Year 7 Students had the opportunity to build and program their own robots, learning about the fundamentals of robotics and automation. The workshop was a hit, with students eagerly showcasing their creations.
Digital Content Social Media Challenge: Year 8 This interactive challenge tasked students with creating engaging digital content for social media platforms. Teams competed to produce the most creative and impactful posts, honing their digital marketing and content creation skills.
Cybersecurity Workshop: Dr Soraya Harding and her team of experts in cybersecurity from The University of Portsmouth led a workshop on the importance of protecting digital information. Year 10-Year 13 students learned about common cyber threats and best practices for staying safe online, gaining valuable knowledge in an increasingly digital world.
‘Portsmouth High School’s Digital Directions Careers Day was a resounding success’, said Head of Careers Mrs Sammy Davies. ‘The day provided students with a unique opportunity to explore the vast possibilities within the tech industry. By connecting with industry professionals and participating in hands-on activities, students left the event inspired and equipped with new skills and knowledge.’
‘We are hugely grateful to our volunteer contributors for having given their time so generously,’ added Miss Mollie Beales, Teacher of Computer Science.
The school fosters a passion for technology and innovation among its students. As the digital landscape evolves, Portsmouth High School remains committed to preparing its students for the future, one byte at a time.
