Five former students returned to Penryn College to share their experiences and advice with teenagers who are preparing to sit their GCSEs this summer.

The two part event aimed to help year 11 students feel more confident about their upcoming exams and learn more about different career options. It began with an assembly where the alumni spoke about their careers and their time at the school. This included their experience of exams and how their GSCE results impacted their next steps.

Next, the alumni and Rhiannon Downer, from Future First, led problem solving workshops. The year 11s were given a range of scenarios based around problems which could occur before or after exams, such as having low motivation, poor organisation for revision or pressure from parents.

Together the students and alumni discussed how these potential barriers could be overcome. This was also a valuable opportunity for the year 11s to seek advice about their own concerns.

Students heard advice from Hayley Stanton, assistant commissioning officer at Cornwall Council; Kerra Buchanan, managing director of Kerra’s Catering Ltd; Nigel Nicholls, independent financial advisor at FAC Group; Paul Caunter, director of Ignition Credit PLC; and Danny Laity, Chief Petty Officer with the Royal Navy.

Year 11 student, Charlotte said: "I really enjoyed the session. It helped me see what my future could be like from someone else’s point of view. It gave me a brief idea of what it’s like to be an adult.”

Rachael Bastian, Penryn College's work related learning coordinator, said: "This was a fantastic opportunity for our current students to meet ex-students and hear about possible future pathways. We were delighted to welcome our alumni back into school and hear about their career successes.”

Programme officer for Future First Cornwall, Rhiannon Downer, added: "Future First works to build thriving alumni communities to support current students in state schools across the UK. Former students are relatable role models who can transform a young person's confidence, motivation and skills.

"It was fantastic seeing the year 11 students discuss the different barriers that they might face over the next few months, and come up with actionable solutions to help them feel more prepared, less pressured and more likely to succeed in their exams."