“The first event was a great success and it was really inspiring to see everyone pulling in the same direction – to ensure that students get absolutely the best, most targeted advice as they prepare to embark on their careers."

The inside track on which skills are most required by employers in 2024 was given at the first Careers Leaders Industry Insights Day delivered by Warwickshire Careers Hub.

Careers leaders from schools and colleges across Warwickshire gathered for the event at Eliot Park Innovation Centre in Nuneaton to hear directly from employers.

The highly successful event was the first in a series, spanning various sectors, to be delivered by the Careers Hub, part of Warwickshire County Council’s Warwickshire Skills Hub. It focused on skills needs in the Digital Creative, Manufacturing, Automotive and Future Mobility sectors.

Careers leaders heard directly from employers about exactly which skills and attributes they are looking for from school and college leavers seeking to transition into workplaces. Speakers included Georgina Mellor from Warwick-based communications company Purple Monster and Phil Bale who has an extensive background in the gaming industry.  The event also heard from also had Heath Davies from Mecalac, Simon Hill from UK BIC and Olaide Olaoye from D&S Engineering. Engagement from the careers leaders was excellent and some great connections were made during the day.

Further Industry Insights days to come are: Adult Social Care, Primary Healthcare and Early Years, January 25th at Warwick Racecourse; Logistics and Construction, March 13th at Eliot Park, Nuneaton; Hospitality, Finance and Business Operations, May 6th Warwick Racecourse.

The Careers Leaders Industry Insights Days add to the interaction between careers leaders and employers, including Teacher Encounter Days and Industry Round Table events, delivered by Warwickshire Careers and Skills Hubs.

Emma Carty, Operational Hub Lead at Warwickshire Skills Hub and Careers Hub, said: “The first event was a great success and it was really inspiring to see everyone pulling in the same direction – to ensure that students get absolutely the best, most targeted advice as they prepare to embark on their careers. 

“I would like to thank all the employers ad careers leaders who attended and made it such a vibrant event which will materially help to shape careers delivery in our schools and colleges.”

Ann Jordan, Careers Advisor and Guidance Officer for Aylesford School, said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to hear about the opportunities and challenges facing local businesses and, although worrying, it was reassuring to hear we are all facing the same/very similar challenges with our students to help them become work-ready. I was particularly struck by what the speaker from Mecalac was saying about the lack of knowledge of industry specific software and practices."