Tees Valley Skills and STEM event hailed a success

The seventh Tees Valley Skills and STEM event has been hailed as a success, after 1,500 young people got involved to learn about employment, education and skills opportunities available in the region.

The event took place at the Olympia Building at Teesside University, where more than 50 of the region’s universities, colleges, employers and learning and guidance providers spoke to 14 to 18-year-olds from across the area.

Exhibitors took part in workshops, provided hands-on displays and engaged in face-to-face discussions with their potential future workforce, demonstrating the skills and qualifications needed to build a career in a wide range of industries.

Hosted by Tees Valley Combined Authority, in partnership with North Yorkshire Business and Education Partnership (NYBEP), Teesside University, Tees Valley Learning Provider Network and Sirius Minerals, it is one of the largest events of its kind in the area.

The event included some of the region’s biggest employers, including Sirius, the Royal Navy, EDF Energy, BT and Jacobs, who sat alongside colleges, universities and training institutions.

Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, said: 'It was great to see so many of our young people taking the chance to see the range of education, skills and employment choices they have the Tees Valley.

'We need to build on this success and work with businesses to equip future generations with the skills they need to succeed, while demonstrating the high-quality jobs available in our area.

'I would ask all businesses and learning providers to continue the momentum and sign up for next year’s event. Employers that want to do more can also get involved with my TeesValleyCareers.com initiative, which aims to connect 1,000 businesses directly to the 100,000 young people in our area, to give them meaningful work experience.'

David Hudson, Teesside University’s Director of Student Recruitment and Marketing, said: 'We were proud to once again support this fantastic event which showcases the wide and varied range of opportunities on offer to young people in this region. The education and business sectors in the Tees Valley have really come together to inspire young people and enthuse them about future career opportunities.'

Gareth Edmunds, External Affairs Director of Sirius Minerals Plc, added: 'Breaking ground on our polyhalite mine tunnel in Tees Valley is the beginning of a process that will provide jobs to the region for years. At today’s fantastic event, we were able to tell our story, encourage and inspire potential employees and demonstrate what we can offer young people in the area.'

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