Maggie Reid – External Speaker Talk
Students at St Mary’s and Emmanuel enjoyed an informative presentation by Maggie Reid, independent Human Resources (HR) contractor, about careers in HR. After graduating in Modern Languages, Maggie worked for charity organisations in Africa.
She has a wealth of experience in HR, having worked for the University of Greenwich implementing large-scale pay review projects and, more recently, as an independent contractor for the professional body, The Law Society.

Maggie spoke about there being many subjects at Sixth Form and degree level, which can open up a career in HR including English, History, Modern Languages and social sciences like Psychology, Sociology and Business. She emphasised that certain skills were important for the role. Practitioners need to be good communicators with strong interpersonal skills, willing to work in a team and be organised. HR professionals may find themselves in conflict resolution and advocacy roles, which requires confidence and attention to detail. Others may find themselves in a training role, both in-house or externally, or managing corporate change or transformation projects. In essence, there are many different aspects to HR so it is a career offering variety.
In terms of advice, Maggie urged students to take up as many opportunities as possible within and outside their current programme of study, to gain experience and develop transferable skills.
Maggie is also currently supporting the College in a voluntary role as a member of our Partnership Advisory Board.
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Tony ST MARY'S Grades achieved: A*A*BA Progressed to: University of Oxford Course: A Level Maths, Physics, Fine Art and Further Maths
“CTK has always encouraged me to aim high, which has led me to apply to the University of Oxford and I am so pleased to begin my studies there. ”
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Mauzi ST MARY'S Grades achieved: D*DD Progressed to: University of Manchester Course: BTEC Applied Science
“During my time at CTK I have enjoyed meeting various new people, whilst engaging in classroom activities and coursework. Additionally, my teachers have provided me with excellent support throughout my studies. I am now going on to study Pharmacy at University of Manchester, in the pursuit of becoming a Pharmacist. I can’t wait to start this new journey.”
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Precious ST MARY'S Grades achieved: D*D*D* Progressed to: City University of London Course: BTEC Level 3 Health and Social Care
“Studying BTEC Health gave me the best opportunity to realise my dream. I’m incredibly appreciative of all the support and assistance I received throughout my course. From the beginning, the staff recognised my ability and didn’t give up on me.”
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Chief ST MARY'S Grades achieved: BBB Progressed to: Queen Mary University Course: A Level Maths, Physics and Chemistry
“I really enjoyed my learning at CTK as lessons were relevant, engaging and challenging, whilst cultivating a warm, dynamic atmosphere.”
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Nathaniel ST MARY'S Grades achieved: D*D*D Progressed to: University of Reading Course: BTEC Level 3 Creative Media
“The personalised attention and encouragement from the teachers has, without doubt, contributed to my academic success. The various resources offered by the sixth form, such as the library, extracurricular activities, and online tools have been outstanding. I would highly recommend CTK, to anyone looking for a wonderful educational experience that goes beyond academic excellence.”
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Maddison ST MARY'S Grades achieved: BCA, Distinction* Progressed to: Degree Apprenticeship in Accounting & Finance Course: A Level Business, Maths, EPQ and BTEC IT
“CTK St Mary's is a great environment with friendly people and teachers who want us to succeed. My grades significantly improved. I have enjoyed the various trips and enrichment activities that take place at CTK.”
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Daulat ST MARY'S Grades achieved: AAB Progressed to: Queen Mary's University Course: A Level Maths, Physics and Chemistry
“If you are willing to put in the effort to succeed, CTK is the best place to be. The sixth form provides excellent resources and a supportive community to help you reach your academic and personal goals.”
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