Wednesday 8 July 2026 saw Solihull School welcome professionals from across the Solihull Community for its annual FUTURES Fair, giving pupils valuable insight into a wide range of careers and pathways.

Organised by Rhian Chillcott, Director of Futures, the event formed part of the School's ongoing commitment to supporting pupils as they explore higher education, apprenticeships and future career opportunities.

The afternoon brought together 23 volunteers from across the Solihull community, including nine alumni, alongside parents and friends of the School, who generously gave their time to share their professional experiences with pupils in the Lower Fifth and Lower Sixth.

The FUTURES Fair provided pupils with the opportunity to attend a series of small-group presentations covering a diverse range of professions. Rather than focusing solely on qualifications and job descriptions, speakers were encouraged to talk honestly about their personal journeys, the challenges they had encountered and the decisions that shaped their careers.

Representing a broad spectrum of industries and sectors, volunteers spoke candidly about routes into their professions, offering practical advice and answering pupils' questions about everything from university choices and apprenticeships to workplace culture and career progression.

The format allowed pupils to meet multiple speakers throughout the afternoon, helping them gain a deeper understanding of the variety of pathways available after school and sixth form. By hearing directly from professionals at different stages of their careers, pupils were able to engage with authentic stories and real-life experiences that brought future possibilities to life.

Rhian Chillcott, Director of Futures, said:

"We are incredibly grateful to all 23 volunteers who supported this year's FUTURES Fair. The willingness of our alumni, parents and friends of the School to share their experiences demonstrates the strength of the Solihull Community and its commitment to helping young people make informed decisions about their futures. The conversations taking place throughout the afternoon were insightful, inspiring and hugely valuable for our pupils."

A particular highlight was the strong support from alumni, whose recent memories of school life and first steps into the professional world resonated with pupils considering their own next stages.

The FUTURES Fair is a key element of Solihull's wider Futures programme, which aims to equip pupils with the knowledge, confidence and connections needed to navigate an increasingly complex world of work. By fostering meaningful interactions between pupils and members of the wider community, the event helps bridge the gap between education and employment while encouraging pupils to think ambitiously about their future aspirations.

Solihull School would like to thank all those who took part and helped make the event such a success. Their generosity and enthusiasm ensured that pupils left with fresh perspectives, practical advice and a greater understanding of the many opportunities that lie ahead.