Suffolk New College welcomes 3,000 students from across county and 70 businesses, Including Sizewell C, Ipswich Town Football Club and ABP to FutureSkills fair

More than 3,000 pupils from 35 schools across Suffolk attended a college skills fair earlier this week.

Suffolk New College held its FutureSkills fair on Monday, supported by over 70 businesses, including Ipswich Town and the Royal Air Force.

The thousands who attended were treated to sneak-peeks into various sectors including construction, creative industries, energy, leisure, tourism, ports, logistics, sports and retail.

Charlotte Rossiter, events co-ordinator at the college, who oversaw the event, said: “It was a fantastic turn out and a fabulous event that gave 14- to 16-year-olds the chance to chat to a host of businesses.

“The whole purpose of the day was to equip young people with the knowledge and motivation they need to make informed decisions about their futures.”

Among the students who attended was 13-year-old Rio Lewis-Samuel, who attends Chantry Academy in Ipswich.

He said: “There were lots of simulators for you to try out and I found the event useful.

“I’d say the day has been engaging and interesting.”

Charlie from Hadleigh High School said it was ‘cool with all of the interactive stuff’.

Other sponsors for the event included Sizewell C, the University of Suffolk, John Grose Group, Suffolk’s Chamber of Commerce and Associated British Ports.

Yvonne Hargreaves, head of communication and marketing at the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said the organisation was passionate about supporting initiatives that bridge the gap between education and industry.

She added: “Sponsoring the FutureSkills Fair allows us to champion local businesses and inspire young people to explore the vast career opportunities here in Suffolk.

“By connecting students with real-world insights and industry leaders, we’re helping to build a future-ready workforce that will drive sustainable growth and innovation in our region.”

Alan Pease, principal and chief executive of Suffolk New College gave his thanks to the event’s key sponsors, who gave up their time and the schools and teachers for their support.

Mr Pease added: “It was a great day that really brought the community together to support the next generation – and it was a pleasure to be the host.”