New City College hosts ‘amazing’ CareersFest event

The popular CareersFest made a return last week with a face-to-face event held at New City College Epping Forest campus – and the feedback from visitors was incredible.

Last year, due to the pandemic, the CareersFest was held online, but it was evident from the hundreds of people who flocked to the college in Borders Lane, Loughton, that they were very pleased to now be able to talk to exhibitors in person.

The event gave students and parents from secondary schools in the area the opportunity to meet representatives and careers advisors from organisations including The Hill Group, which sponsored the event, Army Careers London, Ryanair, Border Force, Essex Police, Haslers Accountants, Higgins Partnership, Investment 2020, Kier, KPMG, Ministry of Defence, Royal Navy, Sales Force Technology, Site Sales, Teledyne E2V, OMD Media and Cohen Davies.

Organised by the Careers Consortium (West Hatch High School, Davenant Foundation School, Debden Park High School, Epping St John’s School, King Harold Academy and Roding Valley High School) along with New City College, CareersFest is an excellent opportunity for young people to speak to employers, training providers, colleges and universities, to find out about making the next step after GCSEs.

Jill Nathan, NCC Industry Placement and Work Experience Manager, said: “We were delighted with the number of visitors and exhibitors who came along. The event had a fantastic atmosphere, with many happy students and parents going away with more of an idea about their future career. We are always keen for more exhibitors to join us. It is a great chance to network with others in industry and to find out how students can support your business.”

Geoffrey Towsey, one of the event organisers, said: “The CareersFest this year was particularly special. After the lockdown and various restrictions, it was so nice to be able to meet exhibitors, young people and parents and carers in the flesh again. The turnout was amazing.”