The annual North Down and Ards Business Education Partnership (BEP) Careers Convention was held in the Ards Leisure Centre. The BEP bridges the gap between the worlds of education and business by getting schools and colleges involved with local companies and by getting employers involved with the education process.
The event, organised by South Eastern Regional College (SERC) on behalf of the North Down and Ards BEP seen over 700 students from schools and Colleges in Ards, Comber, Bangor and Holywood avail of an opportunity to meet representatives from local businesses including Northern Bank, Bombardier, North Down Training Ltd and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust. Students were also able to explore options for Further Education from a range of training providers. SERC had exhibitions in electrical engineering, catering, hairdressing and beauty therapy.
Cool FM DJ Pete Snodden opened the event by recalling his memories of attending careers conventions when he was making choices on his future career and study plans; “I encourage you all to make the most of this opportunity to speak with the experts here today, they will be able to give you all the advice and information you need to make an informed decision on your future career. I remember attending similar events myself and it was from speaking with education providers and industry experts that I was able to pursue my chosen career.”
Cllr William Montgomery, Mayor of Ards Borough Council was also in attendance at the opening of the convention along with Paul Hazzard, Chairman of the North Down and Ards BEP. Mr Hazzard commented; “Our young people will get great value from the wealth of experience of the exhibitors. They are faced with difficult choices and need to place emphasis on both education and experience to ensure they secure future employment.”