Join the EM3 Careers Hub at its Higher and Degree Apprenticeship Fair at Sparsholt College

The NHS, Mondelez International and the Royal Navy are just some of the big names exhibiting at the EM3 Careers Hub’s Higher and Degree Apprenticeship Fair, taking place at Sparsholt College, on Thursday 14 March.

We are expecting over 1,000 students and parents to attend the free event, which will run from 12pm to 7pm. Exhibitors as diverse as the Kier Group, The Metropolitan Police, Careers in Golf, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council will be showcase the career paths on offer in their organisations. Leading universities and colleges, including the University of Winchester and the University of Portsmouth will also be on hand to discuss their Higher and Degree Apprenticeship courses.

The event is aimed at students from years 10 to 13 (aged 15 to 18 years) and their parents, from schools and colleges from across Hampshire. It promises to provide a not-to-be-missed opportunity for students and their parents to meet employers face-to-face and learn about the wide variety of Higher and Degree Apprenticeships available.

This should also prove to be an ideal event for employers to meet young people to talk about the exciting careers on offer in their organisations and their recruitment processes.

Higher Apprenticeships, which are equivalent to a foundation degree and above, and Degree Apprenticeships are equivalent to a full Bachelor’s and Master’s degree.

The value of these apprenticeships is becoming more widely recognised by employers who are keen to attract talented young people with competitive packages.

Recruiting apprentices is increasingly seen as a productive and effective way to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce.

For students, they offer an opportunity to learn while they earn, receiving hands-on training, while completing their studies, without paying tuition fees or taking out student loans.

EM3 Careers Hub Enterprise Coordinator Nicki Morgan-Potter is keen for more employers to join this event. She said: “We are thrilled to have so many companies and other organisations of all sizes exhibiting at our fair, from across Hampshire and beyond, but we would welcome more.

“This is a great way to positively raise the profile of organisations locally and boost their reputation to potential future recruits. It’s also an invaluable way for employers to get a feel of the types of local young people who might be interested in working for them and is an excellent way of showcasing your brand to attract emerging talent.”

Equally, Nicki sees the fair as a valuable chance for students to discover the different careers pathways that are available to them.

“One of our key aims is to help students and their parents have more constructive and informed careers conversations about what options are available before they leave school,” said Nicki.

“Students attending the fair will find it is an excellent way to start exploring options and making contacts with employers and to talk to people and ask questions about their experiences.

“It goes without saying that there are a huge number of exciting opportunities available for students looking to study for a Higher or Degree Apprenticeship, with many employers ready to recruit.”

If you would like to exhibit your business at the fair, please contact Nicki by emailing careershub@enterprisem3.org.uk

Students and parents who are wishing to attend the fair should click here.

Further information

Please note that dogs are not allowed onto Sparsholt College premises.

Parents attending the event will need to park in Sainsbury car park, which holds 500 cars. The car park is opposite the business centre where the Higher and Degree apprenticeship fair is taking place so should be easy enough to see where to go.