Why it matters: The Suffolk FutureSkills Fair gave young people from around 50 schools the chance to engage with over 70 employers through interactive activities, helping them look ahead with confidence about their career prospects.
The details: Held at Suffolk New College for the second consecutive year, the event allowed learners to take part in hands-on activities spanning industries from construction to hospitality, and from motor retail to nuclear energy.
What they're saying: Charlotte Rossiter, the organiser from Suffolk New College, said: "It was a great day that showcased a variety of industries to young people so that they can look ahead with confidence and excitement in terms of their futures. The community really came together to support us and I'd like to thank all of our sponsors, industry partners, the schools, youngsters and college staff for making the day such a great success."
Students responded positively to the opportunity to explore different career paths.
Faith, 12, from Stoke High School said: "Today has helped me make a decision about my future."
Marianne, 12, also from Stoke High School, said: "I most enjoyed the music zone because I like performing and I hope to be a performer when I grow up."
The bigger picture: Employers across multiple sectors used the event to address future workforce needs whilst giving back to the community.
Warren Salmons, business development manager for Morgan Sindall in the Eastern counties, said: "We are a building contractor and we are a proud industry partner with the college. We sponsored the construction area, and we want to highlight the opportunities within construction. Events like this are really important as we need a pipeline of talent to come through, and we need to recruit staff for the future."
Kamil Khoury, managing director for Anglian Larder, a contract catering company, said: "We have used this as an opportunity to link in with the college and give students a real understanding of what it takes, what opportunities there are in industry and do something for the community."
Dom Freeman, a used car sales executive for John Grose Group working out of the Ipswich branch, said: "We are here to show youngsters what the motor industry is all about and show them what goes on behind the scenes. In this day and age, it's important to get young people to think about what they are going to do next. I think what the college is doing is great."
For context: Sizewell C used the event to attract young people into nuclear and related industries.
Elliot Murphy, skills development manager at Sizewell C, said: "This event is unique and we are working with Suffolk New College to try and attract thousands of kids into our industries and inspire them in terms of their futures. It's been fantastic."
Abi Debrah, 18, a cyber security degree apprentice with Sizewell C, added: "We have been talking to young people, telling them about opportunities. I think the event is good. When I was their age, I didn't know what I wanted to do, so I think it's a chance to get an idea of everything that is out there, so they know what they are doing when it comes to either going to university or getting jobs."
The bottom line: The Suffolk FutureSkills Fair demonstrated how early careers engagement can help young people make informed decisions about their futures whilst helping local employers build relationships with the next generation of workers.
