The Festival of Knowledge is set to return for its second year, building on the success of its predecessor, the Norfolk Skills and Careers Festival. Now established as Norfolk’s premier careers event, the two-day festival will take place on 5th and 6th March 2025 at the Royal Norfolk Showground, bringing together over 100 local exhibitors to inspire thousands of local students as they explore potential career paths.
Designed for students aged 14–17, the Festival of Knowledge offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with local employers, industry experts, and education providers. The event is structured around dedicated career-focused zones, making it easier for students to connect with employers in sectors they aspire to join.
These zones cover a diverse range of industries, including construction, agriculture and food, engineering and manufacturing, financial services, healthcare and hospitality, digital and creative industries, energy, public sector, transport, aviation and aerospace, and the charity sector.
Delivered in collaboration with Norfolk and Suffolk Careers Hub and Norfolk County Council, who have been engaging with local schools and education to arrange the logistics for students to attend the two-day event.
Whether students are considering apprenticeships, further education, or a spark of inspiration, the festival provides invaluable insights into the opportunities available within Norfolk’s thriving economy.
Nova Fairbank, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chambers of Commerce, said:
“For young people who are unsure about their future career or already have a specific industry in mind, this event provides the perfect opportunity to explore their options, ask questions, and gain inspiration for the path ahead.
“Norfolk is home to some of the UK’s most innovative industries, and with a growing economy, it’s the perfect place to build a successful and fulfilling career. Whether students are considering apprenticeships or further education, this event is all about helping the next generation of talent discover opportunities and find inspiration for their future careers.”
The event is delivered in partnership with key sponsors including The Norfolk and Suffolk Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), SaxonAir, Lovell, and Morgan Sindall, all of whom are committed to developing Norfolk’s future workforce.
Simon Medler, Regional Managing Director at Lovell, who are sponsoring the Construction Zone, added:
“We are incredibly proud to be the Construction Sponsor for the Norfolk Chambers of Commerce Festival of Knowledge, the county’s largest event dedicated to showcasing careers, skills, and innovation.
At Lovell, we understand the importance of inspiring the next generation to explore the diverse opportunities available within the construction industry and beyond. This event provides a unique platform for young people to connect with businesses, spark curiosity about future career pathways, and highlight Norfolk as a hub of talent and growth.”
Emma Bennett, Head of Community Benefits at National Grid, said:
“We are delighted to be part of the Energy Zone at this year’s Festival of Knowledge. We look forward to collaborating with other regional employers, to inspire the next generation about the exciting opportunities and innovations happening in the energy sector.”
For more information on the Festival of Knowledge please visit: https://norfolkchamber.co.uk/festival-of-knowledge-2025/
ENDS
Notes to editor
Press contact: adam.cracknell@norfolkchambers.co.uk
About the Norfolk Chambers of Commerce The Norfolk Chambers is a not-for-profit independent business membership organisation and is one of 53 accredited Chambers by the British Chambers of Commerce.
We are a business membership organisation, from start-up businesses, small and medium enterprises, and on to global brands, the Norfolk Chambers of Commerce embraces and represents the County’s business community.
We provide networking opportunities, share knowledge, offer business services, signpost to business opportunities and inspire innovative thinking to enable companies to do better business. Our voice is your voice, amplified through established connections, to ensure that politicians both local and in Westminster are focussed on creating and enhancing the conditions that are most conducive for economic growth in our region. The Chambers’ long track record of 126 years and our diverse membership, make us the pre-eminent network and one of the most respected voices of business in Norfolk.
