News and Social Media

Work experience provides students with an invaluable opportunity to develop essential skills, gain insight into the workplace, and make informed decisions about their future careers. Two of our SFC2 students share highlights from their recent work experience below.

“During the ‘Next Steps’ Day event, I attended a talk by Andrea Steeden-Crane, an engineer at EDF. I was fascinated by the scale of her work and her rich experience, particularly how varied her day-to-day role was. This inspired me to stay after the talk and ask Ms Steeden-Crane about the possibility of work experience, specifically to learn about the role of physics and chemistry in the nuclear energy sector. Thanks to the support from Mrs Mooney, the work experience plan was successful.

“My placement was at the EDF office in Gloucester Business Park. It was an exceptional opportunity to see firsthand how physics and chemistry are applied in the energy industry. I gained valuable insight into the specific safety considerations for nuclear power from one of the engineers, Phil Ahmet. I also learned how engineers use mathematical differentials to predict and mitigate potential risks when a reactor is operating. Additionally, I participated in workshops focused on the company's environmental initiatives, particularly how they are preparing nuclear power plants for future extreme weather events.

“This experience was truly insightful, sparking my interest in the energy industry, and has directly influenced my decision to pursue a Natural Sciences course at university.”

 Anna (SFC2), EDF

Between Monday 7th and Sunday 13th July, Art History students participated in an exciting project professionally helping to catalogue artworks on the Artsy platform for the Ruth Borchard Collection Self Portrait Prize. Each student was assigned twenty artworks to upload, including the image, title, media, and related details, while also making curatorial decisions about sequencing the works in the online exhibition. The Self Portrait Prize celebrates the power of self-representation and artistic identity, redefining self-portraiture in contemporary art. 

As the only art competition dedicated entirely to self-portraiture, the 2025 edition features striking works by a diverse group of emerging and established artists worldwide. Through the process, students gained valuable insight into how art exhibitions are developed, as well as the cultural diversity and creativity shaping each piece. The experience deepened our understanding of art history and inspired us to think more critically about the role of the artist today. 

Organised by Dr L Beard, Head of Art History, the project offered a unique and enriching opportunity. We would strongly encourage students to take up similar experiences across departments at CLC to broaden their horizons, develop new skills, and pursue their own interests. 

Iona (SFC2), Ruth Borchard Art History Work Experience 

If you can offer a placement or shadowing opportunity, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact Mrs Turner, in the Professional Guidance Team at turnerl@cheltladiescollege.org.