Year 10 Behind the Lens: Experiencing Tech Innovation at Snapchat HQ
At Central Foundation Girls’ School, we believe in giving our students access to the real world beyond the classroom — and that includes unique insights into exciting industries like tech.
On Wednesday 2nd July, ten of our Careers Ambassadors were rewarded with an inspiring visit to Snapchat’s head office in Farringdon. Led by Dr Claudette Bailey-Morrissey, the visit offered our students a chance to explore future pathways in the world of technology and creativity.
While at Snapchat, students heard from staff with diverse career journeys — each one sharing how they navigated their own path into the tech industry. The overarching message was clear: success doesn’t follow a single route. With hard work, belief in yourself, and a strong set of transferable skills, the opportunities are endless.
The visit wasn’t just about listening — it was hands-on too. Students were introduced to Snapchat’s lens filter augmented reality (AR) software and worked collaboratively to design their own lens filters. This engaging session allowed them to develop their problem-solving and teamwork skills, while exploring innovative tools used by professionals in the field.
Yusrah, one of our standout Careers Ambassadors, impressed staff by asking thoughtful and insightful questions throughout the day. Her curiosity and confidence earned her a Snapchat water bottle — and some glowing feedback. As she put it:
“I won a water bottle, the food was amazing and high quality, and so were the people.”
Other students also reflected positively on the experience:
“The event was excellent!
The staff and other members were sweet and helpful. The accommodation was lovely, and I liked how we were trusted to be responsible with our phones. I was able to make snapshots — (get it?) — of the place.” – Habeebah, 10Y
“The event was excellent!
The most enjoyable thing about the day was making our own Lens filters on the MacBooks. It was cool to see how the professionals did it and do it on our own as well. The man who taught us was very intelligent and taught us everything he knew. I loved hearing his story and journey of how he got to where he was now.” – Ahlam, 10E
“Wow, what an excellent event! Making the filter using AR technology and learning about one of the employee’s origin story (how he was fired unrightfully by Meta and now works for Snapchat) — he was very inspirational and now I will join his cause for the destruction of Meta and Mark Zuckerberg.” – Rathika, 10I
By Dr Claudette Bailey-Morrissey,
Student Aspirations Project Manager
