Pupils at an Andover school were inspired by guest speakers including an artist who paints with her feet because she was born without arms.

On Friday, November 22, Rookwood School held its annual Ambitions Day for students in Year 6 to Upper Sixth.

The event, organised by the school's careers and progression advisor, Sarah Singlehurst, aimed to inspire students by exploring various career opportunities.

This year's focus was on the arts and humanities, with a host of workshops, guest speakers and a careers fair.

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The careers fair featured a wide range of professionsThe careers fair featured a wide range of professions (Image: Rookwood School) Guest speakers included esports consultant James Fraser-Murison, award-winning filmmaker Christopher Baker, photographer and arts expert Simon Peter Green, and musician Joseph Sartin, a former Rookwood pupil.

Representatives from the Army, language specialist and translator Rachel Ward, and other industry professionals also spoke to the students.

The careers fair featured a wide range of professions, including architect duo Peter and William Tesar, musician and producer Marc Burford, graphic designer Faye Brown, and staff from Test Valley Borough Council and Andover Leisure Centre.

Rosie Jon, an artist, storyteller, and Rookwood parent, also held a workshop for senior and sixth form pupils.

She was born without arms and paints using her feet.

Her workshop encouraged students to embrace their unique talents and gifts.

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The event aimed to inspire students by exploring various career opportunitiesThe event aimed to inspire students by exploring various career opportunities (Image: Rookwood School) The event was deemed a "resounding success," providing a platform for students to discover their passions and learn from industry professionals.

Students participated in workshops led by Rookwood teachers, including a product marketing manager simulation and a pop-up shop design exercise.

They were also able to speak to visitors from Hampshire Fire and Rescue, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, and the Army.

One Year 10 student said: "I have realised that studying arts and humanities will open up your mind to the world and how different people view it."

Another added: "I was surprised by how passionate the visitors were about their jobs."

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Following attendance at the product marketing workshop, a Year 8 student commented that she had "learned how important colours are in graphic design".

Sarah Singlehurst said: "Ambitions Day is all about helping students see the world of possibilities ahead of them.

"This year’s arts and humanities theme resonated strongly with our students, and we are so grateful to all the professionals who took time to inspire the next generation."

Paul Robinson, headteacher at Rookwood School, added: "Events like Ambitions Day are key to our commitment to preparing students for life beyond school and encouraging them to be ambitious for themselves and their futures.

"We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm our students showed and the inspiration they drew from this event."