MORE than 700 visitors from Worcestershire schools and some big-name exhibitors attended an annual careers and higher education expo in Worcester.

The event held by Royal Grammar School Worcester involved over 100 exhibitors ranging from universities and employers to apprenticeship providers.

More than 50 careers and industries were represented with organisations and businesses joining the event from a wide range of professions including solicitors, the Army, careers in medicine, finance and engineering.

Engineering was represented by Aston Martin Lagonda and Yamazaki Mazak UK.

Universities nationwide shared their establishments with pupils and visitors from the county community, including Birmingham, Warwick, Imperial College London, Cardiff and Exeter.

It was a fine opportunity for RGS pupils and those from secondary schools across Worcestershire to find out about the opportunities awaiting them post-sixth form, whether higher education at university, degree apprenticeships or future careers.

The co-ordination was masterminded by head of careers Audrey Williams and careers administrator Helen Kirk.

Mrs Williams said: “This year we welcomed representatives from a wide range of organisations, businesses and professions including NHS, the Armed Forces, solicitors, architects, technology, engineering, accountancy and finance.

"As a major event of its kind in the area, the reputation of the RGS expo attracted considerable interest both locally and further afield with exhibitors travelling from as far afield as Newcastle, Queen’s Belfast, Falmouth and Exeter.

"London institutions include London Interdisciplinary School, University College London (UCL), Imperial, Royal Central and Royal Veterinary College London.

"Many other leading universities were also in attendance, advising on higher education options, degree apprenticeships and work experience too.”

RGS said the event was a great success with the atmosphere buzzing as pupils chatted with delegates, gaining insights into the myriad of career opportunities available to them in the future.

Meanwhile, RGS Worcester students competed in the Young Citizens Mock Trial Competition at the weekend.

Three teams presented their legal arguments in front of professional judges in the regional round at Nottingham High School.

The competition challenges students to prepare legal arguments for criminal cases and present them in a courtroom setting.

The unique experience provides a deeper understanding of the role of law and the justice system.

To prepare, RGS Worcester received invaluable guidance from Nicola Monaghan, principal lecturer of law at the University of Worcester.

The teams enjoyed practising their cases in the university’s courtroom, gaining insights into the practical applications of a legal case.

The setting enabled students to familiarise themselves with courtroom procedures whilst fulfilling the roles of clerks, ushers, prosecutors and defence.

The students acting as witnesses practised withstanding scrutiny and cross-examination from their peers.

Jane Harrison, head of history and politics at RGS Worcester, said: “The competition has provided students with an interest in law the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of a legal case within a courtroom setting.

"We are grateful to Nicola and the university for providing our students with this incredible opportunity which could shape their future careers.”

The competition forms part of RGS Worcester’s co-curricular activities for sixth-form students interested in a career in law.