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Suffolk employers unite to showcase career opportunities to more than 3,000 students

Some of the county's largest employers partnered with Suffolk New College to help bridge the gap between education and industry at the first FutureSkills Fair on 04 November.

The big picture: More than 3,000 students from 35 schools across Suffolk attended the event, exploring opportunities in sectors from construction to creative industries.

Why it matters: The fair aimed to help young people make informed decisions about their futures by connecting them directly with local employers.

A team from the National grid had an old school Scaletrix
Suffolk New College
A team from the National grid had an old school Scaletrix

The details: Over 70 businesses provided interactive activities and guidance.

  • Sectors represented included construction, energy, leisure, tourism, ports, logistics, sports and retail.

  • Employers in attendance included Ipswich Town Football Club, Sizewell C and the RAF.

  • 14 local and regional companies provided financial sponsorship for the event.

What they're saying: "The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is passionate about supporting initiatives that bridge the gap between education and industry," said Yvonne Hargreaves, head of communication and marketing at the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce.

"It's a one-stop shop to explore different avenues and enable the young people to make a more informed decision on what to do next," said Kevin Page from John Grose Group, one of the event's sponsors.

Rio Lewis-Samuel and his mum Dawn Lewis-Samuel at the FutureSkills Fair held at Suffolk New College
Suffolk New College
Rio Lewis-Samuel and his mum Dawn Lewis-Samuel at the FutureSkills Fair held at Suffolk New College

The student perspective: Rio Lewis-Samuel, 13, from Chantry Academy, said: "There were lots of simulators for you to try out and I found the event useful. I'd say the day has been engaging and interesting."

What's next: Suffolk New College principal Alan Pease suggested the event could become a regular fixture, saying it "brought the community together to support the next generation."

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The ICS team outside their offices in Henley, just outside Ipswich

ICS

Founded in 1998, ICS has been the trusted IT partner to businesses across Ipswich and Suffolk for over a quarter of a century.
Russell Osman having his ears checked by All About Hearing audiologist and co-director, Karen Finch

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Suffolk’s independent hearing specialists, combining expert care, cutting-edge technology and personalised service to help you hear at your best.
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Ipswich man jailed for five years after rape conviction

Leon Thomas, 53, formerly of Farina Close in Ipswich, was sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday after a jury found him guilty of raping a woman he knew.
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Suffolk and Norfolk mayoral elections to be delayed by two years

The government is expected to announce today that it will postpone planned elections for a new Suffolk and Norfolk mayor from May 2026 to 2028, marking the second delay to democratic processes in the region this year.
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ICS, All About Hearing and David Button Funeral Directors

The ICS team outside their offices in Henley, just outside Ipswich

ICS

Founded in 1998, ICS has been the trusted IT partner to businesses across Ipswich and Suffolk for over a quarter of a century.
Russell Osman having his ears checked by All About Hearing audiologist and co-director, Karen Finch

Exceptional hearing care with a personal touch

Suffolk’s independent hearing specialists, combining expert care, cutting-edge technology and personalised service to help you hear at your best.
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'I've got my life back': Ipswich woman reverses her diabetes in months

Susan Wolton from Ipswich has reversed her type 2 diabetes, lost over three stone and seen her IBS symptoms disappear after joining a free NHS programme that can be completed from home, with limited places remaining for local residents.
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College and university launch charity-business platform

Suffolk New College and University of Suffolk brought together over a dozen local charities and businesses in a new event designed to build partnerships beyond traditional fundraising. Organisers plan to make it an annual Christmas fixture.
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Attwells beats national rivals for apprenticeship award

Local solicitors Attwells has won the National Apprenticeship and Skills Award 2025 for SME Firms, beating national competition for its commitment to developing emerging talent.
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ICS, All About Hearing and David Button Funeral Directors

The ICS team outside their offices in Henley, just outside Ipswich

ICS

Founded in 1998, ICS has been the trusted IT partner to businesses across Ipswich and Suffolk for over a quarter of a century.
Russell Osman having his ears checked by All About Hearing audiologist and co-director, Karen Finch

Exceptional hearing care with a personal touch

Suffolk’s independent hearing specialists, combining expert care, cutting-edge technology and personalised service to help you hear at your best.
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