Exciting Reverse Jobs Fair at Bridge College

This month, Bridge College hosted a Reverse Jobs Fair, inviting potential employers to meet our exceptional third-year students as they prepare to embark on new adventures this July.

A Reverse Jobs Fair flips the traditional job fair on its head, empowering young job seekers to take centre stage. Students set up dynamic stalls to showcase their skills, experiences, and talents, demonstrating to employers why they are the perfect fit for future roles. This unique event not only highlights their capabilities but also hones their communication, confidence, and networking skills—often marking their first professional engagement.

Representatives from esteemed organisations such as Mencap, Manchester Museum, Create Connect, Manchester Central Library and Whitecroft Lighting joined us to explore exciting opportunities with our students.

Warren Young from Whitecroft Lighting expressed,

“I'm so pleased to be involved. The students were confident and we had great interactions. It was interesting to see and work with all at Bridge College”.

The event kicked off with an insightful introduction to Bridge College’s work experience curriculum by Lisa Daniel, our dedicated work experience coordinator. Employers then engaged with students at their presentation stations, where students professionally distributed CV's and delivered compelling presentations about their skills and passions. They posed insightful questions about career development and potential support within these organisations. 

 Student, Millie shared

“ I want to say a big thank you, I really enjoyed getting to know people and what they offer and skills they would like to see, just being able to get to know them. It’s been amazing, I am so happy!”.

Adding to the excitement, Karen from Manchester Museum led an engaging activity, showcasing her work to boost museum engagement. Student Elliot enthusiastically remarked,

“I’m creative and this is a great activity,”

As he crafted a jungle scene complete with a handmade chameleon.

This event was a remarkable opportunity for our students to shine and for employers to discover fresh talent. Chloe Parker, Bridge College job coach, expressed,

“It was incredibly rewarding to see our students so engaged and enthusiastic about showcasing their skills. They had worked diligently with us in Job Club—planning and preparing CV's, creating presentations, and practising how to present themselves—all of which truly shone through at the reverse jobs fair. A huge well done to all our students who took part”.

Ula from Create Connect said, 

“The event was very well organised, very welcoming and students exceptionally prepared to speak to employers. – Well done everyone!”.

Alessia from Manchester Central Library commented, 

“It’s a pleasure to interact with all the students at Bridge College”.

Karen from Manchester Museum said, 

“Brilliant! The students oozed confidence and all the students shown individual qualities to show they are ready for work (can do approach), just the right presentation to see their ability”.

Finally, student Elliott summed up his experience,

“I did extremely well. I made friendly conversations with employers and was asking questions. I was able to take their information on board, and I was very courteous and confident”.

We eagerly anticipate the bright futures awaiting our brilliantly talented students.