John Hanson Community School in Andover Joins Forces with Local Schools and College to Host Successful Careers Fair

On Wednesday 4th October, John Hanson Community School hosted a Careers Fair, involving 40 employers, universities, local schools and Andover College at The Lights Andover, a cultural centre based at the college, supported by a generous grant provided by the Enterprise M3 Careers Hub.

The event showcased a wide range of post-16 options and career routes. These included apprenticeships and T Levels, as well as the more traditional A level options. Students attended from Andover and the surrounding areas, including pupils from Winton School, Test Valley School, Rookwood School, Harrow Way School, Mark Way School, Icknield School and Grately House School.

This year’s event, which was moved to The Lights from John Hanson school, to accommodate more participants, had stands hosted by local colleges, universities, apprentice and training providers, as well as varied selection of local and national employers, representing a cross sector of different industries and professions. This included the NHS, Hampshire Fire and Rescue, the Armed Forces, Multax, Pilgrims UK, Preformed Line Products, the Royal College of General Practitioners, Test Valley Borough Council and the Co-op. Two speakers from Speakers for Schools and School Speakers also talked to the students about their career journeys and how to make the most of their next steps.

Anna Hall, Deputy Headteacher from John Hanson Community School, and lead organiser of the careers fair, said:

“The event was a huge success, and we look forward to planning it again for next year.”

Beth Linklater, Enterprise M3 Careers Hubs’ Enterprise Coordinator for the local area, said:

 “This fair is so innovative because it involves so many schools and colleges. The employers really appreciate being able to see so many students in one place. Hence why the team from John Hanson Community School were presented with our most ‘Innovative Careers Event’ award earlier this year. Well deserved and a testament to all their hard work.”

If you are an employer who would like to get involved in other events to support young people and develop your future talent pipeline, please contact us: Enterprise M3 Careers Hub EOI form (hs-sites.com)