MORE than 1,000 youngsters took part in a careers day at the Redditch branch of the Heart of Worcestershire College.

Students in Years 4 and 8 attended the ‘Inspired to Work’ event at the Peakman Street campus where they were given the opportunity to talk to 26 exhibitors.

Students could ask about the companies, the jobs they do and what qualifications and skills they would need to pursue a career in that industry.

They also had the opportunity to participate in a range of activities and explore the Science Dome where they could watch a short film about the solar system.

Anne Daniel, head of marketing at the college, said: “Inspired to Work was a truly inspirational event that gave young people an opportunity to investigate career options and get involved in practical, memorable activities.

“We would like to thank all of the employers and schools who attended and helped to make this event a success.”

Redditch Borough Councillor Jane Potter added: "We are very grateful to all the businesses that attended the event and explained their work to our young people.

“I would also like to pay tribute to HoW College whose role was key to the success of the day.

“We really hope this event provides Redditch's young people with the inspiration and motivation to work hard at school so that they are able to get the jobs and careers they want.

“It is so important to show young people that there are wealth of possibilities out there that are achievable if they just work hard whilst they are still at school.

“I would also like to thank County Councillors Philip Gretton, Andy Fry and Joe Baker for their financial support for this event.”

Among the exhibitors were West Mercia Police, Redditch Borough Council, Hayward and Wright Accountancy and a number of the College’s internal departments and author Jo Allmond.

For more information visit www.howcollege.ac.uk.