Elliott Hudson College students recently attended in a Communications Masterclass hosted by Santander at their Santander Working Café in Leeds. The masterclass, tailored to enhance both written and verbal communication skills, provided invaluable insights and practical guidance for students as they prepare for future job applications, apprenticeships, and university admissions.

The Santander Working Café concept offers a unique blend of banking services and café amenities, creating an inviting environment for members of the public. Located in Leeds City Centre it is open to everyone from students to remote workers and gives people a facility to work or study privately, alongside accessing information about banking and finance.

Drawing upon real-world examples from Santander, the masterclass helped students refine their communication abilities. Through interactive sessions and engaging discussions, they learnt the importance of clear communication, how to effectively articulate their ideas and how to “sell themselves” in an interview setting.

For the students this trip also served as a great insight into various aspects of finance and banking beyond traditional perceptions.

Miss Barrass, Work Experience Co-Ordinator, accompanying the students, said: “The Santander Working Cafe is a fantastic initiative that bridges the gap between banking and community engagement. It’s an innovative concept that offers valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of careers in finance.”

One student, shared her surprise at the variety of career paths available: “I never realised there were so many different roles within finance and banking. From customer service to digital innovation, there’s something for everyone. This trip has definitely broadened my horizons.”

From exploring careers in finance and banking to pursuing graduate programs and apprenticeships, the masterclass equipped students with essential communication tools to succeed in a competitive landscape.

“We are grateful to Santander for opening their doors to us and giving our students a glimpse into the dynamic world of finance and how students can strengthen their communication,” said Mrs Thomson, Student Destinations Manager: World of Work. “Experiences like these are instrumental in helping students make informed decisions about their future careers.”