South Thames College is hosting a major skills and careers event drawing in young people from across southwest London. The Skills Show Experience will see over 40 employers, colleges and training providers come together on Thursday 8 May at the college’s Wandsworth Campus.

The free event aims to inspire 14 – 25 year olds to explore the career paths, qualifications and training opportunities available to them. Visitors of all ages will be able to try their hand at over 50 ‘Have a Go’ activities from bricklaying and DJing skills to handling reptiles and theatrical make-up.

National employers including Virgin Media, NatWest, McDonald’s and Young’s Pubs will be attending to give advice on applying for their jobs and apprenticeship schemes as well as local organisations including NHS Wandsworth and the WorkMatch team from Wandsworth Council.

Andrew Beardall, Head of Enrichment and Student Engagement at South Thames College said: “With so many colleges, training providers and employers under one roof there will be plenty of opportunities to try out new skills, find out what you enjoy and get advice on how to get secure your dream job. Who knows – something you do or hear at The Skills Show Experience may be the seed of inspiration that motivates you to realise your future ambitions.”

The National Careers Service will also be on hand to offer impartial advice and guidance and for visitors interested in hearing first-hand accounts from those successful in their field, expert speakers will be giving talks throughout the day on topics ranging from architecture to enterprise.

Joe Billington, Director of the National Careers Service, said: “The Skills Show Experience aims to inspire the next generation of skilled young people. We want to raise their aspirations through hands on, practical activities with employers that will enable them to think differently about their future, whilst giving them the opportunity to engage with colleges and learning providers to help them gain the skills employers want."

The event runs from 11am – 7pm and is free to attend. A trip bursary may be available for local schools and colleges interested in bringing along a minimum of 20 students. For more information or to register your place visit www.south-thames.ac.uk/sse or call 020 8918 7375.

 
May 2, 2014