Students to Explore Future Careers at 7th Annual Future First Expo

John Deere, the event’s sponsor for the fourth consecutive year, will showcase their apprenticeship programme, offering insights into the opportunities available at their training academy in Upper Saxondale. There is still an opportunity if you are a local business, training provider or further education organisation to have a stand at this year’s Future First Career Expo. You are encouraged to contact Newark and Sherwood District Council soon to ensure your place is secured.

First set up in 2017 and organised by Newark and Sherwood District Council in partnership with the Lincoln College Group and Newark Advertiser, the Future First Careers Expo continues to provide young people with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their future.

The aim of the Careers Expo is simple – to improve the aspirations of young people, helping them to feel informed and inspired about a number of careers paths, some of which offer new and different opportunities. This is done in a relaxed yet informative setting. Whether it is an apprenticeship, further education or inspiration for a long-term career, the Future First Expo gives the opportunity for students attending to make informed choices. The day will also allow students to ask specific questions about their future whilst gaining invaluable advice from local businesses leaders.

A wide variety of businesses, Further and Higher Education providers attend the Expo. This year this includes the Barcode Warehouse, Duncan and Toplis, Skanska and RWE with representatives from the British Armed Forces and Police Service. Training and education providers include Newark College, University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University and West Notts College. 

Councillor Claire Penny, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Economic Development, commented: "The Future First Careers Expo has consistently proven to be an invaluable event for the young people in our community. Each year, it grows in scale, and it was truly inspiring to hear about the enthusiasm and proactive engagement of students and young people at last year’s expo. Their curiosity and eagerness to explore future opportunities was evident.

“As we look forward to the upcoming Expo on Thursday, 14 November, it is crucial that we, as a Council, continue to invest in the aspirations and futures of our younger generation. By doing so, we empower them to make choices that align with their personal and professional goals. We are committed to supporting young people providing them with educational and employment opportunities and this event is a great way to help us achieve that aim.

 “The Future First Expo is a cornerstone event for us and it’s an excellent platform for businesses to connect with prospective talent and showcase the diverse range of employer-led courses and apprenticeships available. Supporting with the organization of this event is a privilege, as it plays a vital role in helping young people make educated choices about their career paths as well as offering businesses an opportunity to engage with and inspire the next generation of professionals."

If you are a local business, training provider or further education organisation interested in having a stand for this year’s Future First Career Expo, please contact Veronica Dennant at veronica.dennant@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk by Friday 6 September 2024.

For a glimpse of last year event: