17th October 2022
A careers fair aimed at inspiring young people on their next step after further education was held recently at South Devon College.
More than 200 sixth form students from local schools and colleges attended the event hosted by Anthony Mangnall MP in association with the College and Heart of the South West Careers Hub.
“It’s been a really tough three years for young people and for employers but the future is looking brighter and there are so many opportunities locally for young people in South Devon,” said Matt Harbour, Vice Principal at South Devon College.
“Today is about bringing employers together with students, inspiring these young people and saying there is a job, an apprenticeship, or an opportunity for continued education that’s right for you. Equally we want employers to meet our students and see where the opportunities are for recruitment.”
Anthony Mangnall MP (Totnes and South Devon) agreed about the many opportunities available locally.
“One of things I’ve found being a member of parliament for Totnes and South Devon is that whenever you scratch the surface down here you find an extraordinary array of brilliant businesses that do all sorts of incredible things both domestically and internationally. The purpose of today is to get people connected with them and understand there are big opportunities within their midst. Feedback from employers has been very positive and we hope to make this an annual event.”
With more than 40 businesses, organisations and educational establishments attending the career fair there was something for everyone.
18 year old Georgia Dollar from Paignton, who is studying Tourism at South Devon College decided to apply to join the Royal Navy.
“I hadn’t thought of it until today when I saw the stand. I went online to see what positions were available then spoke to the people on the stand who told me more about the roles.”
A Churston Grammar School student who attended the Careers Fair said, ”I came expecting lots of businesses from the local area, universities as well and getting information about various courses for when I’ve finished my A levels and today has been really helpful. I wasn’t thinking about working in the Army before but after listening to the people there I got a good insight. It’s not what you think it is and there’s a lot more behind it to understand.”
As well as being able to meet employers and businesses the students were able to get advice on self-employment, apprenticeships, and Higher Education, as well as receiving guidance on CV writing and other employability skills.
Jacqueline Hobson, Enterprise Coordinator (Torbay & Plymouth) from Heart of the South West Careers Hub said,” This event provides an exciting opportunity for young people to meet with local employers and training providers, to help with choosing their next steps.”