What to expect from LCCA Careers Development Week 2026

LCCA’s Careers Development Week is back! From 12th-18th October, we’ve got a full week of talks, workshops and networking opportunities taking place across The Amp and Sceptre Court for current LCCA students and graduates.

Whether you already have a career in mind or you’re still figuring out what you want to do, it’s a chance to explore your options, meet people working in industry and start thinking about what could come after your studies.

What is Careers Development Week?

Careers Development Week is a week of student-focused events designed to help you get a better idea of where your course could take you. Across the week, employers, recruiters, industry professionals and LCCA alumni will be coming to campus to talk about their careers, share what they’ve learned and give you an insight into different industries and roles.

There’s a mix of talks, masterclasses and practical workshops, plus plenty of opportunities to ask questions and make new connections. Some sessions are tailored to particular subject areas, while others are open to students across LCCA.

What’s in it for you?

You don’t need to have your whole career mapped out to get something out of Careers Development Week. You might discover a job you never knew existed, learn how people get noticed in your chosen industry or pick up some useful tips for your next application. You’ll also have opportunities to speak directly to professionals and build your network while you’re still studying.

There’s practical help available too. Our Career Studio will be open daily from 10:30am-1:15pm on the third floor of Sceptre Court, where you can drop in for advice on your CV, jobs, internships and the LCCA Careers Hub.

Meet the speakers

There’s a packed line-up of guests joining us throughout Careers Development Week. Check out our official Careers Development Week brochure for the full speaker schedule and to see who’ll be joining us each day.

Here are just a few of the people who you can hear from:

Maximilian Raynor – Fashion Designer

Fashion students can hear from emerging British designer Maximilian Raynor for From Fashion Student to Fashion Week. Known for theatrical designs that bring together British heritage, humour and experimental craftsmanship, Maximilian’s work has been worn by the likes of Lady Gaga and Chappell Roan.

Afy Rezaei and Chris Sharp – Chatter Communications

What happens when copy and design come together in advertising? Afy Rezaei and Chris Sharp will be sharing their experience and creative process at leading employer branding company Chatter Communications. Afy is an award-winning advertising creative and copywriter whose client list includes KFC, M&S, Nando’s and Royal Mail. Graphic designer Chris has worked across branding and visual identity for names including ASOS, McLaren, KFC and Footasylum.

Nick Poole OBE – CEO, UKIE

If you’re interested in working in games, Nick Poole OBE, CEO of UKIE, will be joining us for Level Up Your Career – Networking & Insights Into The Games Industry. Nick has extensive leadership experience across the creative and cultural sectors, with a particular focus on policy, partnerships and public engagement.

Sophie Arinde – Founder of The Kollab Network

If you’re thinking about working for yourself, Sophie Arinde’s Social Media for the Freelance Creative session will look at how creatives can use social media as they build their careers. Sophie is the founder of The Kollab Network, which connects emerging creatives with jobs, training and development opportunities through a community of more than 7,000 young creatives.

Rianne Quintyn-Braithwaite – Miai Brand Partnerships

Rianne Quintyn-Braithwaite works in gaming brand partnerships at Miai, helping global brands connect with gaming audiences. Rianne’s session, Press Play – The Business of Brand Partnerships in Gaming, will provide a look at the commercial opportunities that sit around the games industry.

Mary Isokariari – Founder of Socially Curious

Mary Isokariari will be talking about her journey from journalism to running her own business. With more than 16 years of multimedia journalism experience, including at the BBC and ITV, Mary went on to found Socially Curious, specialising in social media strategy and AI training.

More to explore throughout the week

The speaker sessions are only part of the programme. You can also get involved in workshops covering AI and your career, pitching, career pathways, networking and LinkedIn, and positive communication in the workplace. Other sessions tackle the realities of entrepreneurship, finances for creatives and even how to make a zine instead of relying on a traditional CV. And don’t feel like you have to stick strictly to your subject. If another session catches your attention, you’re welcome to get involved.

Make the most of the week

Some Careers Development Week sessions will take place alongside your usual classes, with lecturers taking students to selected events. You can also attend additional sessions that interest you – there’s no separate registration process for the week.

Have a look at what’s happening, bring along your CV or portfolio if you have one and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Even one conversation could give you a new idea about where you want to go next.

LCCA Careers Development Week is open to current LCCA students and graduates and takes place from 12th-18th October 2026 across The Amp and Sceptre Court. You can download our official Careers Development Week brochure for more information.