Special visitors give Slade Primary School pupils a look at working life
7 May 2025
West Midlands Fire Prevention Team’s Simon Debenham talks to pupils (left) and Slade Primary teacher Joe Bennett with Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton (right).
Children at Slade Primary School were encouraged to ‘Start Small, Dream Big’ when visitors gave them an inspirational glimpse into the world of work.
The Start Small, Dream Big Priority Careers Project involved Year 5 and 6 pupils engaging with successful members of the community from a variety of career paths – including a screenwriter, a coffee roaster, firefighters, a HS2 engineer, police officers, an NHS consultant anaesthetist and Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton.
Youngsters at the school, which is part of the respected Arthur Terry Learning Partnership, had a chance to meet and question the guests, who also brought along props that helped better explain their workplace.
Teacher and event organiser Joe Bennett said: “The aim was to introduce the project to the school and local community. We wanted to bring the best of Birmingham together to show the children what they could achieve.”
There was a particular focus on fostering inclusivity in industries and encouraging all pupils to consider the wide range of jobs available to them.
Mr Bennett said: “One of our main aims was to break down gender stereotypes. To show this we had guests who do amazing things that defy traditional expectations. For example, we had a female detective from West Midlands Police.
“One of my favourite moments of the day was when a group of girls from Year 5 found out that the woman in scrubs was a consultant anaesthetist. They were fascinated!”
Staff at Slade also ensured pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) had a chance to talk to the guests via a quiet inclusive time offering a more relaxed session with the visitors.
Mr Bennett added: “The inclusive time was an amazing session and the response from these children was brilliant. We really want to show all pupils that, no matter who they are or what challenges they may face, the whole world of careers is open to them.”
The project was a resounding success, with children still talking about the event hours after it had ended.
Mr Bennett concluded: “Our guests were amazing and showcased the best of Birmingham. They have inspired our children, staff and local community and I couldn’t be more thankful.
“Our aim is to show children what they can do and signpost them along the paths they can take. Our MP Paulette Hamilton said ‘if you can see it and touch it you can do it’. We are breaking down boundaries and smashing through glass ceilings.”
Erdington MP Mrs Hamilton added: “I think we need to see more of this! Slade Primary, thank you for being so forward-thinking – and thank you for a fantastic afternoon at the school.”
Main picture: West Midlands Fire Prevention Team’s Simon Debenham talks to pupils (left) and Slade Primary teacher Joe Bennett with Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton (right).
