Careers event helps break down barriers for students

The students, many of whom have special educational needs and disabilities, attended iCan4 at Eastbourne’s Kings Centre on January 23, where they got the chance to connect with training providers, guidance specialists and employers from all over the country.

Through activities and conversations, the students were able to explore opportunities for work, training and self-development which would have been inaccessible otherwise.

Students got help writing their CVs, filling out college applications and learning interview skills in The Work Ready Room.

In the Careers Cinema, they used videos and a variety of other resources to learn more about potential careers.

Employers came from up and down the country, giving the students the chance 
to explore careers in everything from hospitality to childcare.

The students, who came from 27 schools across Sussex, also enjoyed a variety of coding workshops held by software giant Microsoft.

Colleges and other training providers brought virtual reality headsets along for the day, showing students how they are used in various businesses.

Cllr Bob Standley the county council’s lead member for education and inclusion, said, “This was a wonderful event that gave hundreds of young people, who would struggle accessing mainstream careers fairs, the chance to question employees and training providers and find out about opportunities open to them across East Sussex.

“For the first time, parents and carers were invited along to offer their support and discuss options with representatives from the world of business and training.

“I hope many of the young people who attended have walked away with a better idea of the career path they wish to follow and the education, training and experience they will need to succeed.”

Goody bags were also given out, to help the students take their learning further in the comfort of their home.