A Director of a Bournemouth-based recruitment company was among industry leaders supporting a mock interview day for students.

Daniel Barrett, Director of Holt Executive Recruitment, was part of Ferndown Upper School’s Sixth Form Mock Interview Day.

The special event saw Year 12 students offered interviews with real world employers.

Daniel is no stranger to interview training.

He works with executives and senior leaders across the aerospace, defence, automotive, engineering and satellite sectors through his role at Holt Executive Recruitment, including coaching them for recruitment processes.

His skills were much in demand as he joined professionals from local employers and businesses conducting 130 mock interviews.

They offered a wealth of insights and top tips to help students prepare for university and job interviews in the future.

Daniel, pictured, said: “Interviews are challenging for everyone, including professionals with years of experience behind them, and especially for young people just starting out.

“I was really impressed with how the students conducted themselves – they were keen to gain experience and gather interview tips and guidance.

“It was my privilege to be able to offer some of the insights I’ve gained from years in the recruitment industry, helping them understand what to expect and the kind of preparation they can do to help showcase themselves in the best possible way.”

As well as fundraising for a number of different children’s charities, Holt Recruitment Group is in the process of starting its own foundation to support children in the local community,.

It also has plans to launch a series of entrepreneurial competitions to teach children business skills that will be effective in future careers.

Another visit is also in the diary when Daniel visits Avonbourne Academy in Bournemouth to conduct even more mock interviews next month.

Sara Jackson, Deputy Head of Sixth Form, Ferndown Upper School said:”We have been working on our Year 12s’ next steps and our Student Voice Team requested a mock interview day.

“We were fortunate enough to have many local employers and businesses, including Daniel from Holt Executive Recruitment, offer their time to interview our students and provide meaningful feedback to them about how they can work on their own interview techniques and responses.

“The day has given them a small glimpse into the real world with some exclaiming this is their first ever interview!

“Our students loved it and are so pleased to have had this opportunity.

“We wouldn’t have managed this without all of the employers’ support – thank you so much for giving up your valuable time.”

Founded in Bournemouth by Stuart Holt 16 years ago, Holt Recruitment Group specialises in recruitment for the aerospace, defence, automotive, engineering and satellite sectors.

The rapidly expanding company established Holt Automotive to serve the USA at the end of last year.

A new base in Sydney, Australia, is expected to be operational by December.