STUDENTS from more than 25 schools, colleges and universities, including Knox Academy and Preston Lodge High School, have been offered an insight into the careers available in the financial sector.

The students, aged from 15 to 21, accompanied by their teachers, attended the event at Edinburgh Napier University earlier this month.

Talks were given by financial services practitioners, and included introductions to the financial services sector in Scotland and various office roles.

The full day’s careers overview, organised by charity Future Asset, included workshops on routes into the financial services profession, apprenticeships, school leaver posts, graduate schemes (and internships), sharing information on where these openings are advertised, how to apply, and assessment and interview processes.

All students had the chance to visit offices of sponsoring companies, all based in Edinburgh, to meet staff and join question-and-answer sessions.

Financial services companies taking part included Baillie Gifford, Lothian Pension Fund, Rathbones and Walter Scott.

Speaking ahead of the event, Helen Bradley, Future Asset CEO, said: “Our aim is to give our fabulous alumni an in-depth look into the financial services industry and equip them with the knowledge to make confident, informed applications for great careers.

“As highlighted by Scottish Financial Enterprise research last year, nearly 60 per cent of 16 to 24-year-olds are unlikely to consider a career in financial services.

“Coupled with the fact that only 12 per cent of UK-based fund managers are women, it’s clear why Future Asset exists – to introduce young women to rewarding careers in finance and encourage them to recognise and fulfil their potential.”