Dr Andrew Parmley, the 689th Lord Mayor, addressed Hammersmith Academy’s Sixth Form students as part of the Academy’s ‘Insight Programme’ which diversifies student outlook and helps prepare them for a professional career.

The Lord Mayor, accompanied by the Lady Mayoress, met students in the Academy’s Theatre. He spoke about his role as an ambassador of UK financial and professional services both nationally and internationally; the UK being the leading exporter of financial services across the globe. He explained the importance of apprenticeships and the City’s relationship with providing apprenticeship opportunities for young people and how it was a particular feature of his time in office.

Following the address, students had the chance to ask questions directly in a ‘Q&A’ session and, for a select few, in joining the Lord Mayor for an in-depth discussion over lunch on careers in the City, apprenticeships and the Lord Mayor’s career achievements.

Headteacher, Gary Kynaston said, “Having someone as high profile as the Lord Mayor of the City of London visit Hammersmith Academy is fantastic. Talking directly to our Sixth Form students about career and apprenticeship opportunities available to young people such as themselves, opens their minds to options they may not have considered. It is exactly this growth-mindset we aim to instil in all our students.”