Oxford 'Have a Go' Careers fest

7 February 2012, 06:00 | Updated: 7 February 2012, 06:06

Up to 2,000 young people are finding out what their dream job actually involves when they meet professionals at a careers fair in Oxford over the next two days.

The MINI plant in Cowley is hosting the event with more that 40 exhibitors covering sectors like IT, engineering, science and beauty.

Employers and training advisers will share information and advice on a wide range of opportunities including apprenticeships, further and higher education, and employment.

Some of the companies there are BP, Sainsbury's and Crown Packaging, as well as Thames Valley Police, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue and Oxford City Council.

This year there is also a 'have a go' theme with a range of job-related activities for the young people to try.

They include Classroom Medics with a chance to take blood from an injection simulator and record an ECG from their heart, an electrical wiring challenge, wood-working projects, hair & beauty activities and demonstrations and a motor racing simulator to name a few.

Simon Farrall, head of training for BMW Group UK, said:

"Investment in young people is a key part of our development strategy, and we are delighted to be hosting this year's Careers Fest at Plant Oxford."

Careers Fest is organised by Oxford City Learning (OCL) with support from Oxfordshire County Council Business & Skills Bureau, MINI Plant Oxford, Oxford & Cherwell Valley College and WorldSkills.

OCL Project Director, Alison Robb-Webb, says:

"Careers Fest is a shining example of how a partnership of schools, academies and an FE College can provide an enhanced experience for its young people.

"We are certain there'll be an added buzz of excitement with the event being based at MINI Plant Oxford, with young people and their teachers getting the opportunity to speak directly to such a wide range of employers under one roof."