Over twenty businesses specialising in engineering and construction went back to school for the day to give valuable careers advice to students at University Technical College Norfolk (UTCN).
The careers event at UTCN which took place on Tuesday 22 November, saw local businesses engage with over 300 students aged 14 -18, via an interactive exhibition and educational workshops.
Students were given the unique opportunity to learn more about a career in engineering and construction as they heard direct from the people working in these industries.
The specialist exhibition encouraged a high level of engagement from the students as they explored a range of interactive activities and displays. LSI showcased their initial designs of the UTCN building, Easton & Otley College provided a tractor simulator alongside a John Deer brought by Ben Burgess and students participated in a game of giant jenga with NPS Group and built lego houses with Anglian Water.
Feedback from exhibitors was extremely positive;
‘Well organised, good regular groups of students attending’ Liz Davis Smith, Opito UK ‘Very good atmosphere, the kids were great and asked lots of questions!’ Lucy Furniss & Chris Lappin, LSI Architects ‘Very enjoyable – high level of interest’ Sue Sewell, NPS Group ‘Very well organised and lots of interest made it worthwhile’ Danielle Cox, KLM Engineering
Alex Hayes, Principal of the University Technical College Norfolk said: “Today was a fantastic opportunity for 300 of our students to meet with local and national employers. Finding your future career is a far from straight forward task these days, so events like this are crucial for young people.”
Norfolk Chamber are working with local schools to help deliver careers events that motivate, inspire and educate students about the careers options and jobs available in different sectors.
Caroline Williams, Chief Executive at Norfolk Chamber said: “These careers events are a great opportunity for businesses to work with schools across the region to help address the gap between business and education. Many businesses feel students don’t have the right skills, this is their chance to make a change by taking part in these vital careers event.”
If you’re a business looking to develop the future workforce, volunteer your time or interested in finding out more please contact Philippa Bindley, Events Manager on 01603 729703 or email [email protected]
Businesses who supported the event included;
- Apprenticeships Norfolk Network
- Army
- Balfour Beatty
- Ben Burgess
- British Sugar
- City College Norwich Apprenticeship Team
- Construction Training
- Cranswick Country Foods (Watton)
- Easton & Otley College
- EEEGR (East of England Energy Group)
- Engineering Construction Industry Training Board
- Folliard Hydraulics ltd
- Hi-Span Ltd
- KLM UK Engineering Ltd
- LSI Architects
- Morgan Sindall
- NPS Group
- RAF Honington
- SeaJacks
- Thurne-Middleby Ltd
- OPITO
- The National Grid
