On Thursday 20 November 2025, 21 Year 9 students from Sir Harry Smith Community College explored careers in finance and beyond during a Cambridge LaunchPad event hosted by Cambridge Building Society at its head office in central Cambridge.
Delivered in partnership with Form the Future, the event gave students a valuable insight into the world of work. Students took part in a guided tour of the Society’s offices, met young professionals during a lively Q&A session, and experienced an interactive careers activity “Life’s A Game”, a life-sized board game that challenges students to navigate realistic financial decisions they may face throughout their lives.
This was the second Cambridge LaunchPad visit, as back in October, 24 Year 8 students from North Cambridge Academy were also welcomed to the Society for their own day of workplace exploration. Across the two events, 45 students have now benefitted from Cambridge Building Society’s commitment to inspiring young people, raising aspirations, and showcasing the many pathways available in the world of work and we look forward to building on this in 2026.
Inspiring the next generation of talent
These events aimed to help students understand the wide range of career routes available within financial services, including apprenticeships and alternative pathways, while developing essential teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
“We were delighted to welcome students from North Cambridge Academy and to show them what it’s really like to work at The Cambridge Building Society. Through Cambridge LaunchPad, we helped them explore different career paths and take part in engaging sessions on budgeting, saving, and key financial decisions like buying a home. A real highlight was the interactive activity inspired by the Game of Life board game, which brought those lessons to life and showed how everyday choices can shape our futures. We hope the day sparked curiosity about future careers and helped students see how their skills and interests can lead to fulfilling opportunities right here in Cambridge.”
Sophie Banks, Customer Engagement Training Lead, at The Cambridge
“It’s fantastic to see Cambridge Building Society engaging directly with local students and supporting their development through practical, meaningful experiences. Cambridge LaunchPad brings education and industry together to show young people that there are so many exciting routes into employment, from university to apprenticeships and everything in between.”
David Hawkins, STEM Programme Manager, Form the Future
If you think your company could inspire the next generation, please contact our STEM Programme Manager David Hawkins at dhawkins@formthefuture.org.uk or visit our partners page for more information.