Over 30 universities, employers and apprenticeship providers attended the Richard Taunton Sixth Form College careers fair last week. Students on A levels, T levels and vocational courses also spoke with the armed forces, police and fire service about jobs.
A level Biology, Chemistry and Maths student Judith had her heart set on university before popping along to this annual event. A chance encounter with an exhibitor opened her eyes to other opportunities though.
“We had a talk about the Royal Navy professions and I did not think about them. They said there might be places for people who want to study Biochemistry and Biomedical Science and I want to try and do that possibly in the future,” said Judith.
After college, Izehi, a T level student, hopes to get a degree apprenticeship or go to university to continue studying business. The first year’s longer-term ambitions of working in finance have been helped by meeting a local company at the college careers fair.
“It was really enlightening for me as I met BDO, a big company. They talked about how to do financial audits. I had never heard of that before. It was a really good thing to hear,” enthused Izehi.
Committed careers team
Bringing together exhibitors from so many sectors took a lot of planning by the college’s careers team especially with the fair following hot on the heels of last year’s university specific one.
Jemma Cheviot, Careers and Progression Manager, is passionate about all students getting help with their future through teachers and her careers service.
“There have been some really valuable conversations happening which is what we want. They may not recognise the meaning of the conversation at the time but it does have a benefit, it has sown a seed,” reflected Jemma.
Uniformed Protective Services student Peter has his sights set on joining the armed forces. Learning how to apply for a career in the Royal Marines, Navy and Army and just how demanding the fitness tests are, made Peter’s time at the fair well worthwhile.
“Doing this careers fair is going to help out in the long run. The people have recommended website links, books and things we can gather information from. The exhibitors were brilliant, really informative,” said Peter.
diverse exhibitors at college careers fair
One such exhibitor, Paul Cunningham, from Southampton City Council’s employment support team, actually studied at Richard Taunton back in the 1990s, making life-long friends along the way.
The Employment Officer knows just how hard it can be to get a job so was keen to chat with learners about help with writing CVs and preparing for interviews.
“They don’t need to feel lost and in a jungle because we are here to guide them through that jungle when they come out of college,” said Paul.
Jason Skelton, Crew Manager, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue, was keen to share his experience of 21 years in the service and present opportunities to the young people.
“At the moment there are a lot of people retiring, so there are roles. There’s lots of other roles if you don’t want to put fires out and climb ladders. There are support staff roles, anything you can think of that is fundamental to running a business in a way,” said Jason.
For those looking to continue with their education in a year or two, universities and colleges from across the country were on hand to chat about courses and careers.
The University of Portsmouth offer undergraduate, postgraduate and apprenticeship options. Its Recruitment and Conversions Officer, Jack Traylen, enjoyed his conversations too.
“I have spoken to a lot of really engaged level 2 students that are looking at mapping out their level 3 studies and what courses they need to get into their careers. It’s been really positive,” said Jack.
College careers advice continues
With tailored activities for those level 2 students, World of Work Day and an open evening all coming soon, the college continues to support its current and future students with their hopes and dreams.