My name is Claire and I finished Sixth Form in 2017. I studied EPQ, BTEC Biology and A-Level PE, during my second year of sixth form I started doing work experience in a gym on my free day. Within this work experience they liked my attitude towards the job and offered me an apprenticeship. I went on to achieve my Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer certificate whilst earning money on the job. I have since built up my own self-employed business and now work as a freelance personal trainer in and around the Torbay/Teignbridge area. My top tip for anyone is to get some experience in the career you’re wanting to follow, you might not get paid for it but if you give it your absolute all it might pay off and you could get offered something more towards your chosen line of work.

I studied A-Level Geography, Business and Law at TCS6. I chose those subjects because I always wanted to study Geography as my main subject and Law and Business fits in with any degree or job very well. I attended Bath Spa University to study Global Development and Sustainability. I wanted to study something a bit different than just a Geography degree but still within that interest. My first work experience role was in the environmental sector and it allowed me to learn more about what positions are available for those who follow this as a career path. I believe that this volunteering position impacted my reasoning to apply for a degree in Global Development and Sustainability. This experience enhanced my reliability and organisation skills while introducing me to the world of work. My plan was to do a Masters at Exeter University this year, based in Penryn, Falmouth. But I decided against it as it was all online now due to Covid. I am now a Recycling Co-ordinator for a two-year programme for Torbay Council focusing on ‘less waste, more space’ campaign, educating the residents of Torbay to recycle more. This is a fixed 2-year contract giving me the experience to move on to running other projects within sustainability.

Lee left to study LLB Law and Legislative Studies at The University of Hull under course leader, Professor of Government and Conservative Peer, The Lord Norton of Louth. In his first year, Lee secured a work experience placement with Hull City Council’s Legal Department, advising City Councillors on the Licensing Committee. He was also awarded the 2019 Summer School Scholarship to study Law at Aarhus University, Denmark. In his second year, Lee volunteered as an Appropriate Adult with Humberside Police, accompanying suspects through the custody process to enhance communication between officers, suspects, and legal counsel. In February 2020, he was honoured at St. James’ Palace by HRH The Earl of Wessex for completing the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. In his third year, Lee worked in the House of Commons for former Cabinet Minister Rt. Hon. David Davis MP, where he completed research briefings, drafted articles and speeches, managed casework, and handled media enquiries. Lee is now in his fourth and final year at Hull University and continues to work for David Davis MP alongside his studies as a Legal Adviser at the Hull University Law Clinic. After graduating in 2022, Lee plans to become a qualified Solicitor in the City of London, before returning to the House of Commons as a Political Adviser.