Around 300 Year 9 pupils from across North Wales explored careers in law, policing and public services at an event on 12 June 2026.

Organised by Careers Wales in partnership with Bangor University, the event was developed in collaboration with partners in the legal and education sectors to give young people an insight into a wide range of career pathways.

Pupils had the chance to learn more about roles in areas such as law, policing and probation, and how different subjects can lead to careers in these fields.

Throughout the day, pupils took part in interactive workshops, including mock bail applications and cross-examinations, as well as observing re-enacted trial scenes, prison entry procedures and police demonstrations. Throughout the day, pupils were highly engaged, asking questions and showing a strong interest in the range of careers available. Activities were delivered in both Welsh and English.

The event also featured guest speakers, including former Crown Court Judge Nic Parry, who shared insights into their career journeys and the skills needed to succeed in the sector.

The event aimed to raise aspirations among local and disadvantaged pupils, highlight the range of opportunities available and how subjects such as Religious Studies and Humanities can help develop key skills for these careers.

Karen Evans, a business engagement adviser at Careers Wales, said: “It was fantastic to see so many young people getting involved and really engaging with the activities throughout the day. Events like this help bring careers to life for young people. It’s not just about hearing what jobs exist, but understanding the skills behind them and seeing how their own interests and subjects can help open doors.

“By meeting professionals and taking part in practical activities, learners can start to picture themselves in these roles.”

Employers and partners praised the event for helping learners understand their future options and the skills needed to achieve their goals.

Tracy Horton, a senior lecturer at Bangor University and the Director of Bangor University Legal Advice Clinic, said: “It’s important to start working with younger pupils to sow the seeds as to why a career in law might be right for them and get them thinking about whether or not that is something that they could do or would want to do in the future.”

Wendy Owen, a Circuit Judge in north Wales, said: “Today has been a fantastic opportunity for young people to get a taste of what we do in the legal sector. It’s given them the chance to hear from and speak to solicitors, barristers, judges and police officers, and it’s been really valuable for them.”

Pupils also shared positive feedback about their experience at the event.

One pupil said: “Today helped me understand how court really works.”

Another one added: “I learnt about careers in law I didn’t know about before.”

The event was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from pupils, staff and partners, with plans to build on its success by running it again next year.

For more information about future career events and resources, please visit the Careers Wales website.

Photos: (1) Three pupils wearing barristers’ wigs and gowns at the careers event (2)  Careers Wales advisers with Wendy Owen – Circuit Judge in North Wales (3) Around 300 pupils attended the event at Bangor University