RESIDENTS interested in developing their skills got the chance to see what opportunities are out there at an apprenticeship fair.

The Apprenticeships and Jobs Fair was hosted by Fareham MP Suella Fernandes at Fareham College with national and local organisations meeting people interested in the schemes.

The event was open to people of all ages who are looking for new opportunities to improve their skills and employment prospects.

Fareham College’s apprenticeship team ran a series of interactive workshops, providing information to help people prepare for the world of work or who will go into a range of work-based training options.

Hints and tips about the key qualities and attributes that employers look for and ideas about standing in your CV, job application and interview were also available.

Jay Gleeson is a year nine pupil from Cams Hill School, in Fareham, who visited the event. She said: “I have found out lots of very important information today and I think it will really help me to make choices in the future.

“I feel like I understand the way in which apprenticeships work much more clearly now, and can see that this could be a good option for me when I leave school.”

Suella Fernandes said: “Education and training are absolutely crucial to unlocking opportunities and achieving the satisfaction and security of a fulfilling job.

“Although unemployment has been falling steadily over the past few years, it can be difficult to find a job or the right training if you don’t know what opportunities are out there, if you haven’t been in work for some time, or if you’re looking to change direction.

She added: “I am delighted that this event has been able to promote real jobs to real people in Fareham, as well as highlighting the excellent training programmes and apprenticeship schemes available in the area.”