My Future

Raising awareness of opportunities in key Plymouth industry sectors

As part of the ESF Plymouth 14-19 Vocational Collaboration Project run by Connexions Cornwall and Devon Ltd an exciting interactive student event took place earlier in the year at Plymouth Pavilions. Forty seven organisations from seven different industry sectors provided activities to help young people gain an understanding of a range of employment opportunities. More than 500 young people within the 14-19 age group from 17 schools (15 from within the city), attended the all day event. The day was planned as part of a wider initiative aimed at raising the awareness of young people to the range of educational and employment opportunities available within key city industry sectors. The event was organised in partnership with Plymouth Chamber of Commerce.

There was representation from the Creative Industries, Engineering, Health, Marine, Travel, Tourism & Leisure, Information Technology, Retail & Commercial Enterprises and Construction. There were representatives from small and large companies including major employers such as DML, Land Registry, Coleridge Productions, Rok and Devon Fire and Rescue. Training providers as well as further and higher education institutions were also represented.

The event provided an excellent opportunity to develop strong links between education and industry and helped support the development of Plymouth’s successful bid to pilot the new Diplomas in three areas from 2008. As well as the involvement of the ESF Project Team, the event was also sponsored by the LSC, The Herald, Plymouth Local Authority, and Plymouth Pavilions. Most providers indicated they would like to bring far more students next year!

A local ASDAN COPE Network group has been established and with the project training 65 staff from 18 providers (Schools, TP, FE, HE, Connexions) a firm foundation has been set for further development.

The Aim Higher Conference 'Talking Heads' (29 June, Exeter), with Plymouth involved in the development and delivery of the event, will provide a platform for a continued dialogue on progression issues. Email karen.turvey@plymouth.ac.uk for further information about the conference.