The Reading School Careers Convention 2026 was, at its heart, a collective effort - and one we are grateful to everyone involved for making so successful.

More than 50 professionals gave their time to speak with students, parents, staff and visiting schools. They represented a wide range of employers, universities, apprenticeship providers and industry specialists, with many travelling from across the UK to be at the event. Over half were current parents or Old Redingensians, returning in that familiar spirit of generosity to support and encourage the next generation.

This year’s expanded programme included six keynote talks, delivered by six outstanding speakers and reaching more than 1,450 pupils and parents. The scale and diversity of the event allowed students to explore multiple pathways - from apprenticeships and university routes to summer employment and emerging careers, and to ask thoughtful questions about what those journeys might look like in practice.

We are sincerely grateful to our Headline Sponsor, Leiper Gupta Family Lawyers, for their continued support, and to our keynote speakers for sharing their experience, insight and perspective:

• Dr D Ravindran (Berkshire Pain Clinic)
• Professor D Jackson (Bournemouth University)
• Dr S Arunkumar, Ms P Saxena, Mr T Marchant and Mr V Sangha (IBM)
• Mr M L-Lloyd and Mr E Bell (IChemE – Institution of Chemical Engineers)
• Mr G Sylvester-Bradley and Mr J Jino (NVIDIA)

Events like this reflect a shared commitment to helping young people feel informed, confident and empowered as they look ahead in an ever-changing landscape.

If you are interested in sponsoring a future Reading School event, or would like to find out more, please contact development@reading-school.co.uk.