Local businesses encouraged to sign up to help district’s young people

With hundreds of students coming to this year’s annual East Cambridgeshire Careers & Skills Fair, local businesses are being encouraged to sign up to meet the best young talent in the district.

The event brings Year 11 and Sixth Form students from the four secondary schools in East Cambridgeshire and Kings School Ely the chance to talk to the top employers in the district through speed networking, Q&A sessions and exhibitions.

The Fair, which is taking place on Wednesday 21st October at 8.30am in Ely Cathedral, will also highlight to local young people the skills and qualifications they need to get jobs in certain sectors as well as signpost the careers available on their doorstep.

Cllr Steve Cheetham who leads on Economic Development at East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “The first East Cambridgeshire Careers & Skills Fair we held last year was an outstanding success. It gave our young people the chance to meet some of the outstanding businesses in the district and learn what was required to work for them. This year we have a great line up, with companies of all sizes already committed to attend but there are still a few limited spaces available should your company want to seize the chance to talk to and inspire the young people of East Cambridgeshire.”

Anne Bailey Director of Form the Future CIC said: “There’s no better way for students to get inspiration for their future careers than to speak with people doing a range of jobs. This event is a wonderful way to showcase the rich array of businesses operating in our region and show young people what lies ahead. We are so grateful to the businesses who give their time to help young people learn about different careers.”

Evelyn Forde – Principal at Ely College said: “I am delighted that our Year 11 and Sixth Form students have been given this great opportunity to be part of the East Cambridgeshire Careers & Skills Event taking place at Ely Cathedral. I believe that working in partnership with local businesses is essential for our students as they will be able to have meaningful conversations, discuss career opportunities and have a clearer understanding about the skills and qualifications needed by future employers.”

The East Cambridgeshire Careers & Skills Fair has been jointly organised by Form the Future CIC, Ely College, Ely Cathedral and East Cambridgeshire District Council and businesses due to attend include: Volvo, Michell Instruments, JDR Cable Systems, Napp Pharmaceuticals, Thorlabs, Redgate and Cambridge Commodities.

Sponsors include: Greys of Ely, Shearline, Precision Engineering, Ivor Searle and East Cambridgeshire District Council.

Businesses wishing to access further help should call 01353 644 000 and ask to speak to Erin Keck or e-mailerin.keck@eastcambs.gov.uk

More information on the event can be found at www.enterpriseeastcambs.co.uk