Suffolk’s business and education leaders have come together to back a highly successful skills event aimed at opening up a wide range of career opportunities to the county’s young people.
The Suffolk Skills Show, now in its fifth year, attracts more than 4,500 visitors and 100 exhibitors. This year’s free event takes place at Trinity Park, Ipswich, on Wednesday, October 17.
With all sectors facing challenges in recruitment, retention and training, the day will be rewarding for those participating, say organisers.
The show, run in association with Suffolk County Council with support from the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, and Suffolk colleges has attracted sponsors including lead alumni sponsor Easton and Otley College, BT, Archant and the Network for East Anglian Collaborative Outreach (NEACO), a collaboration of Suffolk Universities under the umbrella branding Take Your Place.
Show chair Dayle Bayliss said it was an “excellent” way for employers, job seekers and young people making careers decisions to find out about the range of support, training and employment opportunities available.
“Recruitment across all sectors is challenging, and targeting young people is key to ensuring a sustainable workforce for the area’s future growth and prosperity. Employers report there is continuing pressure to fill new jobs, replace those who retire and compete against external demand from neighbouring areas and other regions,” she said.
“Last year we introduced Job Hunter, which was a huge success. Exhibitors were able to promote vacancies and talk directly to prospective candidates. It proved that the event should not only welcome young people still in education but those who would like to find out about career opportunities and vacancies in the area and how to perhaps even change career paths too.”
Attendees will ‘try on for size’ different careers, speak to those already working, including apprentices and managers. The event includes ‘hands on’ activities and employer set challenges.
“The Suffolk Skills Show is a great opportunity for young people to speak to experts,” said deputy chair Michelle Pollard.
Prospective sponsors can email hello@suffolkskillsshow.com or contact Boleyn Events on 01473 712330. To book a place, visit www.suffolkskillsshow.com
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