School for Life

The Importance Of That Uppingham Connection

The School for Life programme creates opportunities for established OU professionals to offer support and advice to fellow OUs at any stage of their career. As the world changes, technology advances and the employment market becomes ever more competitive, the Uppingham connection can help to equip OUs with the skills and resources to stand out and provide the confidence to grasp opportunities that present themselves.

The School for Life programme offers a bespoke service, carefully matching those asking for support with Advisers who are in a position to give helpful guidance.

Each support request is considered individually and feedback, from both the recipients and Advisers, is used to continually improve and evolve the service offered.

School for Life Advisers represent a wide variety of industries and professions and have volunteered to offer mentoring, networking, advice and internships.

A message from...

David Gavins (LH 73), OU School for Life Ambassador

2021 has seen a lot of activity, conversations and connections made under the umbrella of School for Life. Support has ranged from general overviews of industries to the characteristics of specific firms; from honing CVs to managing social media presence; and from work experience to sourcing industrial placements and internships. The industries and roles covered are incredibly varied, with advice delivered across many sectors, including finance; accountancy; consulting; asset management; property; retail; technology; dentistry; public relations; wines and spirits; menswear design; soft drinks; engineering; public sector and government; education; film-making; and sports and music management.

Two things really stand out for me. The first is the diversity and breadth of the OU network, both in the UK and globally. I have been delighted to see how we can tap into the network and identify individuals who have the experience needed to give the right advice. And secondly, the positive and encouraging attitude of all the OUs. Those seeking advice have been professional in their interactions, and those giving guidance have emphasised a desire to “give back”. A huge thanks to everyone I have spoken to or ‘Zoomed.

School for Life

Join the OU School for Life Programme...

For those seeking advice – don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

For potential Advisers – we are always looking to expand the network.

Visit the OU website for more details. www.olduppinghamian.co.uk/careers-networking

I really appreciated being part of the School for Life programme and truly hope that it will help other OUs as much as it helped me. It is great to see how strong the OU network is.

Alaric Oudin (SH 15)

I had some very good conversations and fantastic opportunities arise for both work and networking. I am so grateful for the help and connections.

Serena Campos (L 14)

Joining up Uppingham’s Careers Support

Following the end of his time as Housemaster of Meadhurst, Sam Dewhurst has taken up the post of Head of Careers, alongside a role in the Foundation Office.

Sam will work with pupils from all year groups to help them consider their professional futures. His ambition is to create a supportive network of parents and OUs, in their first few years of work, who will help pupils develop their understanding of the different career paths available to them. Sam will also work alongside the School for Life team, creating a partnership that will ensure career support is available to Uppinghamians of any age. If you are a recent graduate, under 25, and would like to share your experiences with pupils, please contact Sam at sgd@uppingham.co.uk.