WSD recently welcomed 9 students from Harris Academy Bermondsey for an engaging two-day work experience programme as part of its Pathfinder initiative, offering a valuable insight into the world of work within a global SaaS business.
This milestone marks the second year running for WSD and Wiseup’s partnership on the Pathfinder Programme, an initiative designed to give young people invaluable insights into the world of work.
Read on to discover exactly how the team at WSD made this such a special week for the students at Harris Academy Bermondsey.
WSD’s 2026 programme
Across the two days, students were immersed in WSD’s dynamic workplace, beginning with an introduction to the company, its people and its role in supporting financial institutions. A guided office tour helped bring this to life, giving students a first-hand understanding of a professional working environment within a dynamic Canary Wharf office.
The programme placed a strong emphasis on developing both technical and transferable skills, so students took part in a range of interactive activities and workshops.
Themes included coding challenges, employment skills sessions and financial literacy activities, all led by WSD team members, both those acting as mentors as well as staff outside of the programme. This allowed the wider WSD team to have a positive impact on the students during their time at the offices, resulting in greater personal and professional development for the wider team.
These sessions were designed to build confidence, encourage problem-solving and provide a practical foundation for future careers.
Alongside this, students benefited from dedicated career development sessions. From CV writing and LinkedIn profile creation to mock interviews and networking advice, they were equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to take their next steps into the world of work with confidence.
Mentoring was a key feature throughout the experience, giving students the opportunity to engage directly with WSD employees, ask questions and gain personal insights into different career pathways.
By the end of the programme, students had developed a stronger understanding of the professional landscape, enhanced their communication skills and built the confidence to present themselves effectively in future opportunities. The two-day experience highlighted WSD’s commitment to inspiring and preparing the next generation of talent.
The experience culminates in students presenting their key learnings back to WSD staff, providing a valuable opportunity to develop confidence, refine their communication skills and engage with professionals in a meaningful way. Overall, the programme empowers students with the insight, skills and self-belief needed to navigate their future careers.