Employers help inspire next generation at careers events attended by 500 learners

HUNDREDS of young people were given valuable insight into their future career options as Coleg Cambria welcomed some of the region’s leading employers to a series of successful Careers and Progression events.

Held at the college’s Yale site in Wrexham and at Deeside, the events brought together around 500 learners aged 16 to 18 with representatives from a wide range of public and private sector organisations, helping them explore the many opportunities available after college.

The events formed part of Coleg Cambria’s ongoing commitment to preparing learners for the world of work by creating meaningful links between education and industry. Students were able to speak directly with employers, ask questions about different career routes and gain first-hand insight into a broad range of professions and sectors.

Among the organisations taking part were Iceland Foods, Denbighshire County Council, Wrexham County Borough Council, Flintshire County Council, Flintshire Local Voluntary Council, Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council, Derwen Joinery Limited, HM Prison and Probation Service, North Wales Police, Prysmian, Haven, the British Army and the RAF.

Learners were encouraged to discuss future aspirations, discover more about apprenticeships, work experience, training opportunities and graduate pathways, and learn about the skills and qualities employers are looking for in future recruits.

The sessions also provided valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to build confidence in speaking with employers and gain a better understanding of the different progression routes available to them across the region.

Gari Thomas, Employer Engagement Manager at Coleg Cambria, said: “These events are hugely important because they give learners the chance to engage directly and start thinking seriously about their future careers and progression routes.

“It was wonderful to see so many private and public sector employers giving their time to speak with learners, answer questions and share their experiences across such a wide variety of professions.”

He added: “We want employers to see Coleg Cambria as an open and accessible partner. There are so many ways to engage with our learners, whether through careers events, industry talks, work experience, placements, apprenticeships or recruitment support.

“The enthusiasm from learners across both sites was brilliant to see – it showed just how valuable these opportunities are in building confidence, broadening horizons and helping young people recognise the different pathways open to them.”

Employer engagement remains a key priority for Coleg Cambria, which works with businesses, public sector organisations and third-sector partners throughout the academic year to ensure learners develop the skills, knowledge and experiences needed to succeed in an evolving jobs market.

In addition to large-scale careers events, the college delivers curriculum-specific industry talks, workplace visits, placements and work experience opportunities designed to support progression into higher education, apprenticeships and employment.

Further careers, employability and placement-focused events are already being planned for the next academic year as Coleg Cambria continues to strengthen partnerships with employers and help learners take their next steps with confidence.