News

On Saturday 23 January, 2,329 young people and parents attended the self-funding annual Connexions New Year New Start Careers Fair at the Hawthorns, West Bromwich.

Visitors were able to meet up to 50 exhibitors, local and national employers, apprenticeship and training providers, universities, colleges and 6th Forms, all keen to inspire, recruit and educate the next generation of Sandwell young workers. Connexions personal advisers were also on hand to give independent careers information, advice and guidance so young people could discuss their options in detail. Four young people on work experience with Connexions helped the day to run smoothly.

The event featured a dedicated FE/HE zone with Universities, Colleges and 6th Forms and a main exhibition area with employers, apprenticeships and training providers.

Kirstie Stewart, Head of HR and Support Services “As a local employer this is a vital part of our approach for our recruitment so supporting Connexions Sandwell to run such an opportunity for local young people aligns perfectly. We would encourage all employers in the local area who have vacancies/apprenticeships to take part in the event and showcase their offerings, you will not be disappointed at the interest and calibre of the young people who attend”.

The busy annual career’s fair is held at West Bromwich Albion football club in January. Providing career, further educational opportunities, and advice for school leavers or those who have left education.

Councillor Simon Hackett Cabinet Member for Children and Education said “Today is about recognising Doocey Group’s commitment to Sandwell young people and raising the profile of apprenticeships. It is about ensuring our young people have independent careers guidance and about maximising the opportunities available to them”.

Subat Khan, Connexions Sandwell Area Manager “Connexions Sandwell share Doocey Group’s core values of Quality and Excellence. Our relationship is evidence of the confidence and trust the company has in Sandwell. The partnership announced today will enable Connexions Sandwell to continue to deliver additional marketing activities such as the annual New Year New Start Careers Fair which attracted over 1800 young people and parents and 50+ opportunity providers and the Careers EXPO in July”.

Connexions Sandwell are in every Sandwell school providing careers advice, guidance, and information to the most vulnerable young people. In addition, more than half our schools fund Connexions to provide additional careers guidance to their students. We also work with unemployed young people to progress them into apprenticeships, Post 16 education and training