IgnitED expands experiential careers programmes for 2026 across leading universities

Following the success of the inaugural 2025 series in Chichester, West Sussex which featured support from partners including Rolls Royce, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust, and the Goodwood Estate, IgnitED will return with an expanded offering across three universities - the University of Surrey, University of Portsmouth, and the University of Brighton.

IgnitED provides young people with real-world opportunities to explore career pathways through behind‑the‑scenes industry visits, workshops led by professionals, industry mentoring, and peer networking. The programmes are designed to help participants gain confidence, develop practical skills, and make informed decisions about their future.

For 2026, students will be able to choose from six distinct pathways:

• Medicine – clinical insights and hospital experiences
• Law – exposure to courts, legal professionals across disciplines, and case studies
• Engineering – hands‑on sessions with leading organisations and technical experts
• Business – entrepreneurial workshops and brand‑building case studies
• The Arts – creative exploration with professional artists and institutions
• Broadening Horizons – a multi‑disciplinary option for those keen to explore more than one industry

Each programme is delivered in partnership with regional organisations and industry professionals, ensuring participants benefit from both professional expertise and individual mentoring. Programme Mentors include industry leaders actively working in their fields, offering authentic guidance and inspiration.

Baxter, a participant on the 2025 Law Programme, said: "My week at IgnitED was amazing! The week was packed with insight and engagement, opening my future with new skills, experiences, and networks. Such a valuable week with amazing support.”

IgnitED’s Founder Sam Holderness, commented: “The IgnitED programmes prove that young people thrive when given the chance to experience careers first‑hand. For 2026, we’re building on that momentum by expanding our partnerships and deepening the mentoring element. IgnitED is about more than career exploration, it’s about young people developing networks, confidence, and the real-world knowledge that their ambitions are achievable.”

IgnitED invites students, parents, schools, and businesses to get involved in the 2026 programmes. Applications for the August 2026 series are now open, with places limited to ensure high‑quality mentoring and engagement.

Find out more - https://ignitededucation.uk/