The Fair brought together residents from across the community, including jobseekers, students, young people and parents exploring future career pathways, as well as those considering a career change. Attendees had the opportunity to speak directly with employers, learn about training and progression routes, and access advice and support services available locally.
Speaking at the event, Jodie Gosling MP explained the motivation behind the fair: “I visit many education institutions and lots of employers in Nuneaton, and there’s clearly a disconnect. Our young people are telling me there aren’t the jobs out there, and employers are telling me they’re struggling to recruit.
“This event is about raising ambition, connecting people, making sure home-grown talent is recognised and putting locals in touch with the people who can hopefully shape their futures.”
This year’s fair was notably larger than its predecessor, with increased employer participation from companies including Hercules Construction Academy, George Eliot Hospital and Jaguar Land Rover as well as a broader range of support services.
Jodie added: “This is our second event, and we’ve got so many more employers and support services than last time, so it really is growing as we go.”
The event aligns closely with NWSLC’s commitment to supporting local skills development and strengthening links between education and employment. The Fair aimed to help businesses secure the skilled workforce they need for the future, while ensuring residents are aware of the opportunities available to them within Nuneaton and the wider area.
Marion Plant OBE FCGI, Principal and Chief Executive of North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College, said: “We were delighted to host the Jobs and Futures Fair at our Nuneaton Campus and to work in partnership with Jodie Gosling MP and the Department for Work and Pensions on such an important event.
“Bringing employers, training providers and the community together in this way is vital to ensuring local people can access real opportunities and clear progression routes. Events like this play a key role in strengthening our local economy by connecting home-grown talent with the skills and jobs that will shape the future of our region.”
Jodie added: “We’d like to give a big thank you to the college for hosting us and allowing us to use this space. We know how important it is for the college to be connected to the town and to help make the connections that support a thriving local economy.”
