Inspiring Future Careers: A Recap of the WOSCP Careers Fair 2024

On the evening of December 4th our Witney Campus buzzed with excitement as over 400 students from across West Oxfordshire gathered to attend the Careers Fair. The event, organised by the West Oxfordshire Schools Careers Partnership (WOSCP) and hosted by Abingdon & Witney College, provided a fantastic opportunity for students to explore their future career options.

Around 50 exhibitors filled the campus with vibrant stands and offered valuable insights into a wide range of industries including engineering, healthcare, law, technology, hospitality and more. Employers, universities, and apprenticeship providers were all eager to speak with potential future employees. Whether looking for post-16 courses, degree-level options, or apprenticeships, there was something for everyone.

Students had the chance to meet representatives from a variety of organisations, gain insights into what employers were looking for in future recruits, and learn about what their next steps could be. Phil, from Oxford Energy Academy explained, “We've enjoyed helping young people understand what it is we do, and we’ve also been able reassure them that not knowing what you want to do isn’t a bad thing.”

For those interested in further education, universities and colleges like Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust and Hartpury University offered information on their programs and admissions. There were also apprenticeship providers, such as BMW, the Armed Forces, and AirTanker giving students a direct insight to training opportunities in various fields. Rhys, from Siemens Healthenieers told us, “It’s always good to get involved with the younger generation and hear their ideas and thoughts towards further education. It gives us a good understanding of what we should offer.”

The Careers Fair was a fantastic success, leaving attendees open and inspired about the many opportunities awaiting them. The aim of the event was put best by Andy, from the Oxfordshire County Council Tree Service, who said “It’s about promoting the variety of career pathways available to people...we are paid to live our own interest, what more could you want?”

Simon Parker, Careers Lead at Chipping Norton School who is also a member of WOSCP said...

“Thank you, Abingdon & Witney College, for hosting and helping to organise the WOSCP Careers Fair tonight. It was a great evening, providing our students with valuable information about local career opportunities from a wide range of companies. After speaking with several students and parents at the end of the event, it is clear to me that this is an incredibly valuable event for our students. A big thank you to all the companies who attended as well.”

If you need help with your next steps, Abingdon and Witney College offer a growing array of post-16 and degree level courses, as well as apprenticeship options. Check out our course pages for details. For more information and help with careers, feel free to contact our Careers Advisors. They’re able to provide confidential guidance with anything from choosing the right course and supporting with UCAS applications to creating a CV and giving interview tips.