More than 1000 students swapped their textbooks for conversation with 23 different organisations, ranging from the high-octane world of Gemini Rail Services to the compassionate care of Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital.
Adding to the prestige of the day, Laura Kyrke-Smith, MP for Aylesbury, joined the event to meet with students and local businesses. Her visit highlighted the vital link between local education and the regional economy, particularly during a week where skills and future opportunities topped the local agenda.
Developing the Art of Conversation
Beyond the brochures and business cards, the event served as a vital skills-building platform. For many young people, the fair was a first foray into the world of professional communication. Students were encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, introducing themselves to adults in a professional setting and learning how to articulate their interests and ambitions.
"The students were exceptionally polite and clearly understood the purpose of the day," noted Maxine Ingram of Future Training. This focus on "soft skills" - confidence, active listening, and verbal communication - is designed to ensure that Cottesloe pupils are not just qualified on paper, but ready for the realities of the modern workplace.
Sparking the "Lightbulb Moment"
For many students, the day was a series of "aha!" moments. A Year 7 student admitted they had no idea the Thames Valley Police offered so many roles beyond patrol duty, while a Year 9 pupil left the event buzzing about a dedicated farming college.
"I’m going to talk to my parents about it tonight," the student said - exactly the kind of spark the school’s Marketing and Careers Coordinator, Anna Gunn, was hoping for.
The staff were equally impressed. "My Year 10 class absolutely loved it," said teacher Maria Gardner. "It was a great exposure for young souls”.
An Inclusive Future for All
Inclusivity was at the heart of the festival. To ensure every pupil could access the opportunities on offer, the school held dedicated quiet sessions for SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) students. These sessions provided a calmer, low-sensory environment, allowing students to build their confidence without the pressure of a crowded hall.
Crucially, the event featured specialist exhibitors like Central Training and Bucks Supported Internships, who offer dedicated post-16 supported internships for students with EHCPs. Their presence ensured that students requiring additional support have a clear, tangible pathway into the workforce.
From Apprenticeships to Universities
The event wasn’t just about looking at brochures; it was about meaningful connection. British Gas representative Ian Aldersley noted a surge of interest in apprenticeships, while Maxine Ingram of Future Training praised the students, calling them "exceptionally polite" and "clearly aware of the purpose of the day."
The "sector directory" for the day was impressively broad. Whether students were interested in the RAF, the NHS, or The University of Buckingham, professionals were on hand to answer the tough questions—focusing on the reality of daily tasks rather than just a salary figure.
Building a "Careers Journey"
While the 2026 event was a resounding hit, the school is already looking at how to make 2027 even bigger. Plans are in motion to evolve from a one-day fair into a "comprehensive careers journey."
A Community Effort
The success of Future Fest 2026 was bolstered by a strong network of local support. The school extended a special thanks to Caroline Cooper from the Bucks Skills Hub and the wider Bucks Schools Careers Leads. Their collaboration and shared expertise have been instrumental in helping The Cottesloe School provide such a high-calibre experience for its pupils.
