A Focus on Careers

Years 6, 7 and 8 gathered in anticipation to hear from two very different speakers in the first of this year’s careers talks series.

First up was Consultant in Neuro-ophthalmology, Ruchika Batra.  Ruchi (who is mum to Amelie in Year 5), shared her personal journey that led her from medical school to being an expert in her field, in which she diagnoses and treats visual disturbances linked to neurological conditions. Pupils learnt how to identify the optic chiasm on a scan and gained insights into how doctors like Ruchi diagnose and treat complex issues, working in multi-disciplinary teams. Ruchi is also a well-being lead, who works with junior doctors. She shared some of her top tips for maintaining a healthy body and mind including the importance of sleep, nutrition, exercise and relaxation.

Next, we heard from a British Army Major who is also an Old Hallfieldian! Major Benedict Dent-Pooley spoke animatedly about his 10 years in the Army, his military training and how he has risen through the ranks. He spoke about the wide range of career opportunities you can pursue in the Army including logistics, communications, engineering and more. He left us with no doubt that a military career can be incredibly rewarding but requires discipline, leadership skills and resilience.

Each talk ended with a lively Q&A session with children keen to delve deeper and find out more. They were clearly inspired by the knowledge and passion shared by both of our guest speakers. Thank you to Ruchi and Major Dent-Pooley for giving up their time today.

If you’re an Old Hallfieldian or current parent with an interesting career, and would like share this with our pupils, please get in touch.