More than 800 students from high schools across Wyre attended the second annual Prosper Careers Fair, held last week at Marine Hall, Fleetwood.
Organised by Wyre Council in partnership with Lancashire Police and Inspira, the event brought together a wide range of employers representing sectors such as healthcare, engineering, construction, housing, adult social care, hospitality, local government, media, public services and more.
The Prosper Careers Fair is designed to help young people explore the many pathways available to them, whether that’s higher education, apprenticeships, work experience, or entering employment after school. Students had the opportunity to speak directly with employers to learn what qualifications, skills or experience are needed in each sector. Those still unsure of their future direction were able to discover new interests and gain inspiration from the variety of careers showcased.
Students from Hodgson Academy in Poulton-le-Fylde told us how valuable their visit to the Prosper Careers Fair had been. One student, who is considering a career as an electrician, said he found it fascinating to speak with BT about how they install and maintain specialist equipment, from cameras to systems that monitor CO₂ emissions and vehicle exhaust fumes. Another student, with a strong interest in mechanics, shared how conversations with BAE Systems helped him understand the different engineering pathways available and what skills he’ll need for the future.
This successful event supports Wyre Council’s corporate priorities for Growth and Prosperity, demonstrating the council’s ongoing commitment to helping residents develop new skills and access higher-paid employment opportunities. Bringing employers, educators and youth organisations together in one place helps ensure students have the knowledge and confidence to plan their next steps.
Councillor Roger Berry, Deputy Leader of Wyre Council and Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services and Community Safety, said:
“This event shows just how powerful it can be when our community comes together to support its young people. Employers, educators and youth organisations have all played a part in helping students understand the wide range of careers available to them. Wyre Council is committed to creating pathways into high-quality education and employment and Prosper is a fantastic example of the positive impact that partnership working can have on our future workforce.”
The Prosper Careers Fair originated from our Prosper: Clear, Hold, Build partnership, an innovative Home Office framework for tackling serious and organised crime, and received financial sponsorship from the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime (LANPAC). Through collaboration between public services, local employers, schools and community organisations, the partnership recognised the need to create positive pathways for young people, leading to the development of this careers fair.
Wyre Neighbourhood Policing Inspector, Stuart Stevenson said:
“At its heart, the Prosper Partnership is about working together to open doors for local people, and events like this careers fair are a brilliant example of that. It was wonderful to see so many businesses chatting with students and helping them explore the wide range of opportunities available in and around Wyre.
“For us as the local police, it was a great chance not only to speak to young people curious about a career with Lancashire Constabulary, but also to spend time with them, build trust and help break down barriers.
“If anyone is interested in a career in policing, I would highly recommend visiting our dedicated careers site: joinus.lancashire.police.uk. We have a host of information regarding Officer and Staff roles, but also our Police Cadets and Volunteering opportunities.”
Both large and small organisations attended to offer insight into future careers, from major national employers such as BT Plc, Balfour Beatty and BAE Systems to local public services including DWP, Lancashire Police and the Armed Forces, alongside a wide range of locally owned businesses.
Addison Group Ltd, one of the many employers taking part, said:
“Events like this are so important because the earlier we can inspire young people to think about their future careers, the better equipped they are to make informed decisions. By speaking directly with employers, they gain real insight into the qualifications and skills they’ll need and can start planning their next steps with confidence. The students today have been curious, engaged and full of great questions. It’s been a pleasure to support them.”
Multi-ply Components, a Fylde Coast manufacturing business attending Prosper for the second time, highlighted the value of the event both for students and for the future of STEM industries:
“This event gives students a real sense of the options open to them when choosing their GCSEs. They’re able to speak directly with employers and learn about the wide range of opportunities available, whether that’s apprenticeships, higher education or employment. For us, it’s a valuable chance to talk to young people about careers in STEM and to encourage everyone to explore these exciting fields. We’re also particularly keen to highlight STEM pathways to young women, who remain underrepresented, and to show them that these careers are open, rewarding and full of potential.”
Higher education providers were also on hand to guide students through the A-Level and degree routes needed for different professions. In addition, youth organisations such as the United Youth Alliance and The King’s Trust shared volunteering and personal development opportunities that help young people gain valuable experience and build their CVs.