Apprenticeship and Job Fairs – helping young people find their perfect match

The final in a series of Apprenticeship and Jobs Fairs across the county is being held in Kettering next week to help match young people with local employers and training providers.

The event will be attended by local businesses including Church’s Shoes and door and window lock manufacturers Winkhaus; training providers will include Moulton College, Kettering Borough Training and the National Apprenticeship Scheme.

Young people taking part can talk to local employers and training providers, watch practical demonstrations and take part in speed-matching interviews. The speed-matching interviews involve a series of three minute interviews between young people aged 16-19, local employers and training providers. Young people can learn about the opportunities available whilst employers and training providers can get to know a little about the jobseekers, before deciding whether to go on to formal interviews.

Lauren Wyatt, Connexions Choices Adviser said: “These innovative events will give young people the opportunity to find out more about local employers and training providers and take part in a series of very brief ‘speed’ interviews. The aim of these events is to match young people to employers or training providers who have jobs, apprenticeships or training opportunities to offer.  They will also help young people build their confidence and interviews skills.”

The events are have been organised by Connexions Northamptonshire with funding from the Northamptonshire Leadership Group.  Established in 2011, the Leadership Group brings together all of the public sector leaders in the County to improve partnership working and promote Northamptonshire.

Valerie Hitchman, Head of Community Services, Kettering Borough Council  said ” It is really encouraging  to see local employers participating in events such as these, it is important that businesses play a part in developing and shaping young people to ensure they have the relevant employability skills to match with our local employers needs”

Cllr Mark Dearing, Kettering Borough Council said: “It is crucial that young people have the opportunity to develop long-term, successful careers.  Encouraging apprenticeships and job opportunities is a key priority for us here in Kettering and we are pleased to be supporting these important events.” 

Connexions staff will be on hand to provide careers information, advice, guidance and support at each event.