Young people aged 15-19 years, parents and carers are being invited to sign up to a virtual Careers and Apprenticeship show which launches on 20 May. During a year of unprecedented change for young people, this new online event, which has been organised by BCP Council in conjunction with other local authorities, will support career ambitions and job prospects for young residents in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
With many employers pausing recruitment for apprenticeship schemes, young people have been the worst affected group nationally when it comes to finding jobs. The online apprenticeship show, which will run from 9.00am to 7.00pm, aims to prepare year 10-13 pupils and students from local schools and colleges for life after education.
Over 60 organisations will be on hand to speak about apprenticeships, training and employment opportunities in the area. Career advisers will help attendees understand their next steps through interactive presentations and live Q&A sessions.
Councillor Nicola Greene, Portfolio holder for COVID-19 resilience, Public Health and Education said:
“COVID-19 has impacted opportunities for young people both nationally and locally in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. The Careers and Apprenticeship Show is a fantastic way for young people to meet organisations from across the south coast area who have come together to support them with live vacancies and training opportunities at the virtual fair. We welcome local organisations who are joining the event as well as offering live apprenticeship vacancies which young people can apply for on the day.”
“Parents and carers are also invited to attend the event alongside their young person, enabling them to share their own experiences in employment.”
Those in attendance will be able to watch short 30-minute talks from employers and apprenticeship providers on the main stage. Local organisations will be on hand to provide young people with career-relevant information and advice.
Those who attend the event will gain a greater awareness of the opportunities available locally as well as the recruitment needs for businesses in the area. This information will help shape career aspirations as full guidance will be given. Fact sheets and information pack will be available to download on the day, so attendees can take them away to review in their own time.
The event has been organised in conjunction with local authorities in the south coast area including Dorset Council, Portsmouth City Council, Isle of Wight Council, Southampton City Council and Hampshire County Council.
Young people aged 15-19, parents and carers can sign up to the Careers and Apprenticeship Show by visiting cas2021.vfairs.com The event can be accessed on any device with an internet connection. Those who register will receive a full agenda in advance, allowing them to plan their day at the careers event.
Registering for the event also means that those unable to attend on Thursday 20 May can visit the virtual conference hall for 30 days afterwards to participate in recorded conferences and virtual talks.