Project Description

The Annual Careers Evening aimed to connect students with a variety of employers, training agencies, colleges, and universities, providing insights into career pathways and opportunities. The goals included:

  • Facilitating interactions between students, parents, and exhibitors. 
  • Offering information on higher education and apprenticeships. 
  • Promoting inclusivity by involving ASN (Additional Support Needs) pupils through the DYW Pupil Ambassador program. 

Attendance: Approximately 400 participants, including students from all year groups and parents, attended the event. 

Role of DYW Pupil Ambassadors: These ambassadors engaged with exhibitors, showcased ASN pupils’ capabilities, assisted with catering, and communicated with employers. 

 

Details of Employers and Businesses Involved 

Exhibitors represented various sectors, providing insights into career pathways: 

  • Local Employers: Companies like Abbotsford Care and EQ Accountants LLP shared job opportunities and apprenticeship information. 
  • Educational Institutions: Colleges and universities, including Edinburgh Napier University and Fife College, presented higher education options. 
  • Support Services: Organizations such as Skills Development Scotland offered guidance on career development. 

These entities participated through the DYW Fife program, recognizing the importance of engaging with youth to prepare them for the workforce. 

 

Event Outcomes 

The Careers Evening featured interactive stalls, allowing students and parents to gather information on: 

  • Higher Education: College and university courses. 
  • Career Opportunities: Job routes and apprenticeship options. 

With around 400 attendees, the event created a lively atmosphere, and the DYW Pupil Ambassadors effectively communicated with local employers, demonstrating independence and confidence by the end of the event. 

 

Feedback from Attendees 

Feedback was positive, highlighting the event’s impact: 

  • Exhibitor Feedback: “Very welcoming; the pupils were helpful. Would be happy to return.” 
  • Parent Feedback: “Well attended with diverse stalls. It clarified choices for my child. Thank you!” 
  • Pupil Feedback: “As a DYW ambassador, I built my confidence and had fun talking to different people.” 

 

Conclusion 

The Annual Careers Evening successfully connected students with employers and educational institutions, enhancing informed career choices. By including DYW Pupil Ambassadors, the event promoted inclusivity and empowerment among ASN pupils. The positive feedback emphasises the importance of such events in fostering engagement and providing essential career guidance, strengthening ties between the school and local businesses for future collaborations.