For young people considering a career in the armed forces, care, defence or law, the college careers fair was the place to be.
Students taking a range of courses spoke with representatives from the Royal Navy, Army, BAE Systems and Crown Prosecution Service, just before March’s National Careers Week.
As well as employers, a whole host of local education providers attended too, including regional universities.
Teachers support students
Whenever a college careers fair happens, Charlie Paul, Esports and IT teacher at St Vincent, always encourages his students to attend.
Obviously Charlie has high hopes for them.
“I’m a firm believer that knowledge is power. And I feel like events like this provide the students with that knowledge and the power to progress,” said Charlie.
APPRENTICESHIPS at college careers fair
As for Charlie’s students, one in particular popped into the Jervis Gallery with a few key career questions.
A little later, his first year’s eyes had been opened by chatting with the “friendly and helpful” exhibitors.
“I learnt information about the digital and technological solutions apprenticeship from a company that operates all across the world,” said Charlie’s student.
Meanwhile, Andrea Adams from South Hampshire College Group (SHCG) recruited two females into construction last time round, including alumnus Dasha.
So, the Lead Business Partner at SHCG was keen to offer some top tips to more aspiring apprentices.
“Definitely have a good look through some of the literature online to definitely ensure that’s what you’re interested in. Have a look over the course content and make a phone call,” advised Andrea.
WORKING IN CARE
Meanwhile, Jennifer Penn popped along to talk about working in care started as a care worker at Caring Hands Domiciliary Services a few years ago and now has an office role there, recruiting fresh faces.
Whilst qualifications are not key to securing a job in care, Jennifer knows one quality certainly helps.
“I think just basic compassion is really the most important thing and we can offer opportunities to anyone from college, university, anyone with children or other commitments because there is always going to be a level of flexibility with us,” said Jennifer of Caring Hands Domiciliary Services.
WORKING IN THE POLICE
Much like Jennifer, Police Constable (PC) Debbie Neesham hasn’t aways been in her current role at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary.
In fact, the PC started off as a Police Community Support Officer in the noughties.
During a typical day PC Neesham helps with domestic issues, public order disturbances and vulnerable people.
She took the time to explain what she likes most about her employer.
“I think the best thing about Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Constabulary is the variety of the role and all of the opportunities that are available in the organisation,” said Debbie.
COLLEGE CAREERS SUPPORT
During the fair, Careers and Progression Manager Jemma Cheviot took a moment to reflect on how it was going.
“I think particularly our School of Personalised Learning students have really benefitted from the fair. The feedback in the classroom is they they’ve met some companies they didn’t know existed,” said Jemma.
Rather than struggle on their own, Charlie recommends reaching out for help to colleagues like Jemma.
“The way they can overcome their concerns is by speaking to the careers advisers here at St Vincent. They’ve got a wealth of knowledge, an absolute catalogue of contacts that they can speak to. They have a better idea of the industries too,” said Charlie.
Coming up, Work Experience Week offers students across the college another great opportunity to dip their toes into the world of work.