Skills and Learning Fair days away

Final preparations are under way for the Rochdale Borough Skills and Learning Fair at the Town Hall next Tuesday (19 May).

The event aims to inspire adults to learn something new and update their skills and there are 35 organisations signed up to this year’s fair.

Exhibitors, including Rochdale Council, Job Centre Plus, Hopwood Hall College and Next Step, will be offering practical advice on a range of areas from free training courses through to further and higher education.

There will be tips on the basics like improving English and maths and getting to know computers, as well as helpful hints on graduate opportunities in the borough.

Organisers are hoping that the diverse mix of opportunities on offer will attract people at all levels of learning to the fair.

Penny Sharp, Head of Regeneration at Rochdale Council said: “Whether you are unemployed, looking to get that promotion at work or just simply want to learn something new, the Rochdale Borough Skills and Learning Fair will have something for you.”

Event co-ordinator, Les Barnes, Skills Officer at Rochdale Council is also keen to stress that the fair aims to offer a gentle, learn-at-you-own-pace approach to learning and is keen not to overwhelm people. She said: “We understand that there are many people across the borough who feel nervous at the thought of re-training and learning something new. We want to assure these people that the fair will offer a friendly atmosphere.

“People are welcome to just come along to have an informal chat and wonder around the stalls to see what’s on offer – and they may be surprised and find a new skill or two.”

There will also be a special bus parked outside the town hall for people to visit for help writing their CV and advice on interview preparation and techniques.

Following the fair, a special awards evening will take place at the town hall to celebrate the achievements of borough’s learners in the past 12 months. The awards will recognise the efforts of adults who’ve already successfully developed new skills, overcome difficulties or changed career.

The Skills and Learning Fair will run from 11am – 6pm.