A Day of Inspiration, Opportunity and Community
The 20th of May marked a standout moment in the Emmaus CAT calendar as Year 9 pupils from our four secondary schools came together at Belle Vue Speedway for the Year 9 Careers Event, a day dedicated to ambition, aspiration and the futures ahead for our pupils. The event brought over 300 students together with dozens of employers, with a shared commitment to helping young people take their first confident steps towards the world of work.
A celebration of collaboration
Events of this scale do not happen by accident. They are the result of thoughtful planning, strong partnerships and a shared belief in the potential of every young person. Staff across our central team and all four secondary schools worked tirelessly to coordinate transport, schedules, speakers and employer engagement. Their efforts ensured that every pupil had access to meaningful encounters with professionals from a wide range of sectors.
The day was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we work together as a Catholic community. Bringing our Year 9 cohorts into one shared space created a sense of unity and excitement, with students learning alongside peers from other schools, discovering new interests and realising that they are part of something bigger. Walking alongside one another in this way is at the heart of who we are.
Belle Vue Speedway as a venue
Belle Vue Speedway proved a ideal choice of venue. Its facilities allowed us to host both the keynote presentations and the busy careers marketplace under one roof.
The keynote session offered pupils a chance to hear real stories from real professionals: how they started out, the challenges they faced and what drives them today.
The careers marketplace became a hub of conversation and curiosity. Pupils moved from stand to stand, asking thoughtful questions about job roles, rates of pay, entry requirements, training pathways and long-term prospects. The atmosphere was a mix of nerves, excitement and genuine interest as students explored possibilities they may never have considered before.
The employers who joined us
We were grateful to welcome a wide range of employers who generously gave their time, expertise and encouragement. Representatives from Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Police, the British Army, Biffa, the Royal Navy and many others engaged with pupils throughout the afternoon.
Each organisation brought something different. Manchester City Council highlighted the breadth of roles available in public service. The Police and Armed Forces offered insight into disciplined, community-focused careers with clear progression routes. Biffa showcased opportunities in environmental services and sustainability, an area increasingly important to young people. The Royal Navy shared stories of travel, teamwork and technical skill.
These conversations were invaluable as pupils begin to think ahead to their Year 10 work experience placements and the longer-term pathways that might shape their futures.
Looking ahead
The Year 9 Careers Event was more than a day out of school. It was a meaningful step in preparing our young people for the choices and challenges ahead. By bringing together our four secondary schools, our staff and a wide network of employers, we created an experience that will stay with pupils as they move into the next stage of their education.
Most importantly, the event reminded every student that their future is full of possibility. With the right information, support and encouragement, they can begin to shape a career journey that excites and inspires them.
We are proud of our Year 9s, of their curiosity and confidence, and of the way they represented their schools. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make the day such a success.
You can read more about the event below: