Insight to Opportunities as Adult Learners Meet Local Employers

South Eastern Regional College (SERC), in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland and the Department for Communities (DfC) Employer Services Branch, hosted an employer engagement event for adult learners as they prepare to explore possible career pathways.  The 40 students attending are currently studying either the Level 3 Access Diploma in Foundation Studies or Restart, a first step course for adult returners.  The groundbreaking meeting introduced them to seven local employers, all offering varied and flexible career paths.

The event, titled Think Differently, sparked conversations about innovative approaches to employment and lifelong learning through a panel and networking session.

Catherine Shipman, SERC’s Head of Engagement and Development said, “This event demonstrates the power of collaboration in shaping inclusive career pathways and in supporting those returning to education. Employers were glad to engage with motivated learners, and the adult students benefited from networking opportunities and the chance to gain practical insights to career pathways.”

Joanne McMullan, Head of Labour Solutions from Invest NI said, “Access to a strong skills pipeline and diverse labour pool is vital to a strong regional economy with good jobs and improved productivity. Addressing our high rates of economic inactivity and promoting life-long learning will be key to ensuring we have the workforce we need for the future. Events like this between industry and education are a critical step in making this happen.”

Paddy Rooney, Deputy Secretary, Work and Health Group, DfC said, “Employers and jobseekers can each face obstacles in meeting their labour market needs. DfC’s Employer Services Branch is proud to be involved in events like these which help employers and jobseekers to better understand each others’ needs and importantly help find mutually beneficial solutions. We look forward to continuing to work with Invest NI towards that goal.”

This successful initiative is just one demonstration of SERC’s commitment to empowering learners and strengthening partnerships with industry. The college works with the support of Invest NI to meet the evolving needs of the Northern Ireland economy.