The College of North West London (CNWL) showcased the world of skills and the career opportunities they could lead to, by hosting a free careers event for over 1,200 visitors including school children from across the borough.
The CNWL Skills Show, which took place at the College’s Willesden campus, was open to anyone interested in finding out what working and studying in subjects such as engineering, construction, robotics, hairdressing, photography, motor vehicle maintenance, beauty, IT or forensic science is really like. The day was full of opportunities for visitors to watch exciting competitions, demonstrations and even have a go at many skills themselves.
College of North West London catering student Ritha Alavi, 17 from Willesden helped run the catering stand, which was kept busy with guests eager to try their hand at cake decorating. Ritha said: “The day has been really fun. It’s good to be able to demonstrate things like cake decorating to people.” The beauty therapy stand was also bustling with visitors as College students showcased a range of skills, including massage. Student Melinda McAdam, from Harlesden, commented: “It’s great to do events like this. I’ve got a real passion for what I do and I think this resonates with visitors, which helps them ask questions and learn about the beauty industry.”
Another popular ‘Have a Go’ was forensic science. Visitors got the chance to learn about fingerprinting and hair sample analysis and the students who helped run the event were inundated with people keen to get involved. Faris Osman, 17, from Willesden, who is studying science at the College said: “I started studying science because I want to become a doctor and the facilities and tutors at the College are fantastic. We get to learn about forensic science too and it’s been fun today to show people how it all works.”
As well as ‘Have a Go’ activities and demonstrations, students took part in 20 skills competitions, which visitors were invited to watch. Competitions ran in skills such as web design, plumbing, brickwork, vehicle mechanics, refrigeration, welding and hairdressing. Samy Brakchi, from Kensington, was one of the competitors in the electrical installation competition. He commented: “I work in the air conditioning industry. I can fit air conditioning units but I need an electrical expert after that. I realised that I wanted to come to college to learn these electrical skills so that I can do the whole job myself. Being in competitions like this is helpful. It shows you what skills you have learnt, what you are capable of and how good you can be. I really enjoyed competing.”
Painting and decorating competitor Asimba Mbala, 33, from Willesden added: “One day I want to own my own painting and decorating business and I think that taking part in competitions like this helps to give me the confidence to do this.” Electronics competitor, Chaida Mobo,25, from Islington added: “It’s good that we can put skills such as electronics on display. People have been coming in and having a look at what we are doing. I’m really enjoying the course, and it will give me the ability to reach my goal of becoming an engineer.”
Visitors could also meet with employers and industry bodies who were happy to help explain the opportunities open to young people. Margaret Jovanovski, from Vokera Boilers said: “We work in partnership with the College to help support the next generation. It’s important for us to come to events like this so that young people can see the types of career options there are.” David Tandy, from the Institution of Engineering and Technology added: “I read recently that we are short of 40,000 engineers so we need to inspire people to get into the industry and attending the College’s Skills Show, is one way for us to help do this.”
Shola Sandy, a year 12 tutor at Newman Catholic College, who brought a group of students to the CNWL Skills Show said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for students to see what is out there and get real hands on experience of trying different skills out. The College’s tutors have been really supportive and have been explaining to our pupils what is needed to study different skills and what career paths the courses can lead to. It’s a great event.”
College of North West London Principal, Andy Cole commented: “The day has been a huge success. We’ve been able to showcase the fantastic opportunities out there for young people, provide visitors with a chance to see these skills in action, get real hands on experience and meet with employers. Everyone has had a great day and we look forward to hosting the event again next year.”