Young people got a window into the world of work during a careers fair held in Ipswich.
Over 3000 students from 35 schools attended the first ever FutureSkills Fair that took place at Suffolk New College.
The event was supported by over 70 businesses who organised interactive activities and gave free advice and guidance to all attendees.
And everyone from Ipswich Town to the RAF flew into the Rope Walk based campus.
Sectors that showcased what they do came from construction, creative industries, energy, leisure, tourism, ports, logistics, sports and retail.
Events Co-ordinator at the college, Charlotte Rossiter, oversaw the occasion. She said: “It was a fantastic turn out and a fabulous event that gave 14 to 16-year-olds the chance to chat with a host of businesses.
“The whole purpose of the day was to equip young people with the knowledge and motivation they need to make informed decisions about their futures.”
Rio Lewis-Samuel, 13, from Chantry Academy was one of the students who took part in this event. Rio 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.”
Charlie from Hadleigh High School said: “It’s been cool with all of the interactive stuff.”
Vicky Richards from Chantry Academy is a careers guidance professional at Chantry Academy. Vicky said: “It’s been really good – there have been lots of different sectors for the kids to see.”
Key sponsors gave their time and financially supported the fair. Those companies were Ipswich Town Football Club, Sizewell C, University of Suffolk, Chassis Cab Truck Centres, Ceetech, John Grose Group, S&P Ventilation Systems, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, Care Development East, Barnes Construction, McCann, Wincanton, Hudson Group, ABP and Galldris.
Yvonne Hargreaves, Head of Communication and Marketing at the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce represented one of the sponsors.
Yvonne said: “The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is passionate about supporting initiatives that bridge the gap between education and industry. Sponsoring the FutureSkills Fair allows us to champion local businesses and inspire young people to explore the vast career opportunities here in Suffolk. By connecting students with real-world insights and industry leaders, we’re helping to build a future-ready workforce that will drive sustainable growth and innovation in our region.”
Kevin Page works as part of the used sales team at John Grose Group who were another sponsor. Kevin said: “I think the event is great – 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.”
Principal and CEO of the college Alan Pease said: “A massive thanks to our key sponsors, every business who gave up their time and the schools and their teachers for their support. It was a great day that really brought the community together to support the next generation – and it was a pleasure to be the host.”
