Our commitment to students doesn’t end when SMILE week finishes. We’re building an alumni network designed to keep past participants engaged and supported as they begin their career journey. This includes regular communication through newsletters and check-in emails, ensuring students have access to guidance and opportunities when they need them most.
We’ll be checking in with students after the programme to see how their skills, confidence, and career aspirations have grown. By listening to their experiences and following their progress, we can keep shaping SMILE into something that truly supports every student’s future.
We’re also planning a series of online and in-person activities to supplement the learning students gained during SMILE week. The first online session is scheduled for December, with more events to follow, creating ongoing opportunities for development and connection.
We have also had alumni return for shadowing experiences in practice areas they expressed a specific interest in during SMILE week. By aligning these shadowing sessions with individual interests, we ensure that every student gains meaningful insight into the areas that inspire them most.
Our alumni programme plays a vital role in shaping a diverse and future-ready talent pipeline that supports our organisational growth. By maintaining strong connections with our SMILE students, we aim to provide ongoing guidance and opportunities that help them thrive. We’re committed to ensuring they feel supported and prepared to succeed in their applications for our vacation schemes and apprenticeships, turning their potential into long-term career success with Birketts.
