The Power of Networking at College

For many T Level students, attending extracurricular events and activities allows them to connect with some of Leeds’ top industry leaders.

These opportunities not only provide students with an opportunity to see the industry in action, but also hone a powerful skill for their future careers: networking.

Here’s how our Digital & IT students are building valuable connections by participating in activities and events.

A fortnight of digital events

As part of the Leeds Digital Festival fortnight, students attended Wild Digital’s Lunchtime Social and Careers Drop-In where they connected with various organisations, including Leeds City Council, KPMG, Axiologik and BJSS. The event offered a unique chance to network with leading digital minds and executives. Students also participated in a 10 minute, one-to-one careers session where they received practical advice. 

The Ethical Hackers Lunchbox event, organised by The Pentest People, provided T Level students with valuable insights into the world of cybersecurity. Accredited consultants shared their knowledge and expertise across various sectors, offering students a deeper understanding of industry practices. Even better were the live demonstrations of penetration testing techniques and cyber defences that students witnessed, allowing them to see how those in the field tackle real-world challenges.

At Ay Up, It’s AI, students explored the potential and downsides of artificial intelligence (AI), listening to successful stories alongside lessons learned from past missteps. Led by CSP Director, Kevin Else, the event increased students’ awareness of the security risks associated with generative AI along with strategies for reducing them.

The fortnight of digital activities offered a valuable introduction to networking, giving learners a chance to practise fostering their own connections with industry experts. Student, Adam Patel, said, “What I really liked was the opportunity to network with other members of society regarding the IT decisions I will make in the future.”

The power of networking at college

By networking with employers early on, students can learn to leverage a skill that’s proven to advance people’s careers. In today’s world, networking can result in broader industry knowledge, more career opportunities and an improved ability to come up with new ideas or solutions.

Cheryl Macfarlane, Deputy Head of Commercial, Apprenticeships and Digital at Leeds City College, has been especially spearheading this idea. 

She says, “Networking with industry leaders while in college allows the students to gain insights into real-world challenges and emerging trends, directly from those with hands-on experience. 

“These interactions not only boost their confidence but prepare them to navigate their educational journey with a deeper understanding of the digital and  IT sector.”

A key component of T Levels is the 45-day industry placement where students engage in work experience. To help with the search, the college’s Digital & IT department hosted an employer event where industry representatives from NHS England, IPEX, Pentest People and One Compliance could present and offer placement offers.

The event encouraged students to build connections that could shape their professional journey both during and after college, as well as teaching them to ask key questions to other employers during their job searches.

Employers who attended on the day also found it valuable to connect with students seeking placements, with Liz Sahu, Apprenticeship Lead at NHS England, saying: 

“Leeds City College are experts in supporting young people develop the cyber skills employers need now and into the future. 
“The support and direction they offer to their T Level students is very impressive. I wouldn’t hesitate in supporting them with industry placements in the NHS.”

Find out more about our T Levels in digital & IT here.