Annual CIPD conference equipped over 1,000 students with insight on career development, professional standards and workplace trends, alongside valuable networking opportunities
The CIPD Student Conference this March attracted record numbers. Nearly 1,200 CIPD members attended on the day, making it our most successful conference ever for aspiring people professionals. Those who couldn’t make it can catch up on the CIPD website.
Exclusive to CIPD members, the Student Conference takes place each March and is held online to accommodate a global audience. At this year’s event, an impressive line-up of speakers and panel discussions gave them valuable insight into the future of work and the evolving role of the profession, while showcasing how CIPD membership supports students throughout their professional journey.
The free, annual event is designed to give student CIPD members extra support in their studies and professional development. Through a series of engaging sessions designed to equip them with practical knowledge and insights, the conference offered in-depth guidance on the CIPD Profession Map, networking strategies and navigating early career challenges.
“The conference inspired me to take a more proactive approach to my career development. I’m now more engaged with the HR community and excited to apply the insights I gained.”
In the opening keynote session, CIPD Chief Executive Peter Cheese reflected on the impact of economic pressures and artificial intelligence (AI) on the profession. He also emphasised the need for people professionals to be adaptable and continuously develop and assess their skills to stay relevant. Miriam Stephens, Head of Organisation Assessment and CPD at the CIPD, covered how HR professionals can use the CIPD Profession Map to regularly assess their skills and develop a clear path to success.
There were also several panel discussions, including one that focused on ‘Securing your first role in HR’. The energetic conversation featured insights from industry experts on job search strategies, standing out in interviews and the value of networking. In another session, a panel of experts explored the profession's growth over the past decade and discussed current challenges and future opportunities, including how the profession might evolve in the coming years.
To close the conference, Dr. Daniel Hulme, Chief AI Officer at WPP, gave a thought-provoking talk on AI’s evolving role in business and society. Attendees came away with a framework for understanding AI and an awareness of the challenges and opportunities it presents to unlock creativity within organisations.
“This event helped me explore the challenges and opportunities in the future of work, while also deepening my understanding of the profession.”
In a world of work that never stands still, experts in people, work and change are key, and it’s never been a more exciting time to join the profession. CIPD Student Membership is for those who want to demonstrate their commitment to their professional future. It offers CIPD support throughout your studies and works alongside CIPD qualifications to put you on the path to professional recognition.
Student members are equipped for success with access to practical and insightful content, study guides and tips for assessment. As a member, you’re also part of a vibrant community where you can network and learn from the experience of senior professionals and connect with fellow Student Members for friendly support.
The people professionals that make the greatest impact are those with the capability, confidence and credibility to drive change. After completing your studies, you’ll be eligible to upgrade to Foundation or Associate Membership, giving you a globally recognised badge of professionalism that employers increasingly expect to see. The CIPD is a trusted career partner for more than 162,000 people professionals worldwide. We inspire and support them to make the biggest impact in their workplaces and the wider work of work.
“The record attendance at the conference demonstrates how committed our student members are to their professional development. We’re proud to be a trusted partner for people professionals at the start of their careers and beyond.”
The CIPD Student Conference is our flagship event for student members, providing valuable opportunities for learning and networking. If you’re a member and you missed this year’s conference, you can catch up with the conference recordings.
We’re committed to making continual improvements and next year’s conference promises to build on this year’s huge success. Look out for more information.
In the meantime, make the most of your student membership by:
Explore our resources to help support you while you’re studying.
Optimise your CV and significantly boost your chances of getting to the interview stage.
Exclusive to CIPD members, explore our Career Support Toolkit to help you progress in your career and be the best you can be.
