This experiential event, designed for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and people of all ages facing barriers to employment, connected attendees with over 50 employers and next steps providers, including universities, colleges, training organisations, and apprenticeship programmes.

More than 300 students from 20 schools attended during the school day, with a further 200 young people and adults joining the after-school session. The event offered a hands-on, interactive experience where attendees could explore what it’s like to work in key industries, understand the skills employers are looking for, and learn the steps needed to secure their first job.

Sponsored by De Soutter Medical, the event also featured exhibitors such as the Association of Project Management, the NHS, Fairhive Homes, and EKFB.

See all the photos of the event here >

    

A spotlight on Supported Internships

This year’s show placed a special emphasis on supported internships, highlighting them as a powerful pathway into employment for young people with SEND.

In addition to sessions throughout the day for visitors, a dedicated lunchtime workshop for employers brought together a panel of local business leaders to share real-life success stories and practical advice on being Disability Confident employers and creating more inclusive workplaces.

Buckinghamshire Business First is proud to champion inclusive employment and continues to campaign for greater employer engagement in creating accessible career pathways for all.

        

What was the reaction to the Confident Futures Skills Show?

Marina Jackson, Under 19 Skills Manager at Buckinghamshire Skills Hub, said: “We thoroughly enjoyed welcoming so many students, their parents, exhibitors and career-changers to this inspiring show and we’re sure many of them will have gone home bursting with ideas and opportunities.”

Robin Carter-Evans, from the Association of Project Management, shared: “We’re proud to sponsor the Confident Futures Skills Show as part of our commitment to expanding opportunities for young people in the local area. With a growing skills shortage in our industry, this is a fantastic way to connect with the next generation of talent.”

Ellie, a parent attending with their child, said: “There’s such a wide variety of organisations here - from project management and the film industry to the fire service. You can even learn how to drive a monster truck - as a real career! It’s incredibly inspiring.”

A student from Pebble Brook School commented: “When I first walked in, I thought - wow! I didn’t expect to see so many exciting ideas about what we could do in the future. From VR and driving to building and more, it’s been really interesting.”

Deepa Damera, from Royal Mail, added: “It’s just amazing to see so many employers in one place, giving students a real sense of what’s possible.”

Support for employers

Take a look at our Workforce Development resources that can help you inspire and employ young people, upskill your employees, offer apprenticeships, and much more.

With our team at your side, we can help you recruit, nurture and grow the talent your business needs to thrive.

For individuals wanting more information on careers and skills support, including tailored resources for young people with SEND, visit www.BucksSkillsHub.org, email [email protected] or call 01494 927130.