Future first - just the job for youngsters

A careers fair is being described as ‘just the job’ for youngsters across Rochdale.

The two day event, being held this Thursday and Friday (16-17 October) at Rochdale Town Hall, is designed to encourage youngsters to stay in education, employment or training after the age of 16.

Youngsters from the majority of secondary schools will attend and it is also open to any young people who want to find out more about post-16 opportunities in the town.

Young and older employees at the council will be on hand to talk about their jobs, how they got them and what qualifications they needed. Careers advice and employment opportunities will also be available from Connexions and other providers in the area.

Cabinet member for Townships and Corporate Management on Rochdale Council, councillor Keith Swift said: "We are determined to reverse the trend of our talented youngsters leaving the borough by encouraging them to look at career options with the council. Our young people are the future – not only of the borough – but of the council itself and we want to do all we can to make sure they get the education they need as well as making sure there are good jobs for them at the end of that process. There is a bright future for Rochdale with more jobs being created – including opportunities at the new Kingsway Business Park – so it’s important that we give the next generation the best chance of getting those jobs."

Director of Transformation, Mark Widdup, started at the council 25 years ago as part of the ‘junior pool’ – the equivalent of an apprenticeship today. Over the years he has held various positions across the authority and has recently been promoted to his current role overseeing major projects, including the building of new civic offices in Rochdale town centre.

Mr Widdup said: "I am proud to work for the council. Most people aren’t aware of the vast number of services that the council provides. Day in, day out, we do everything from dealing with abandoned cars right through to ensuring the street lights are working – and lots, lots, more in between.

"I guess I’m a real example of the type of career progression the council can offer – especially to people who are prepared to work hard and learn on the job. I’ve learnt a huge amount while I’ve been here and am hopefully putting that to good use in my new role – ultimately making a positive difference to people’s lives. It doesn’t get much more rewarding than that!"

As Rochdale's largest employer, there are many opportunities at the council - from apprentice schemes and accountancy right through to surveying, swimming instructing and psychology.

The Future First event is a free event and exhibitors include work-based learning providers, further and higher education providers, Connexions, Aim Higher and local employers. It follows the success of the Rochdale's annual jobs fair, which attracted a record two thousand people in September.