On-the-spot interviews offered to jobseekers at Walsall College event

A careers fair with a difference hosted by Walsall College led to 30 jobseekers applying for roles and being interviewed on the spot.

The candidates from Birchills and Leamore attended the college’s Hawbush Campus to meet with 11 different employers, apprenticeship and training providers; all offering vacancies with immediate starts.

Assistant Principal at Walsall College, James Norris, said: “It’s fantastic to see a swift and effective process in motion; where advertised vacancies, expressions of interest and employer interviews are carried out simultaneously. It’s testament to the willingness of employers, the DWP and training providers to provide positive outcomes for individuals requiring particular support when it comes to navigating the local jobs market.

“With all those interviewed likely to be offered employment, it means we are all playing a key role in raising the aspirations and achievements of those within specific communities and areas such as Birchills and Leamore.”

James added: “Now that we have a successful jobs support model in place, we hope to run similar events in future – both in these areas and across Walsall.”

Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, Cllr Adrian Andrew added: “This is a great example of collaborative working with Walsall College. We’ve had a lot of success with our Walsall Works programme and partly because we’re finding new and innovative ways to connect employers and jobseekers with positive results.”

Employers at the event included Barhale, whg and Walsall Football Club Community Foundation Group (WFCCCP).

The careers fair was one of two events hosted by the college, DWP and Walsall Council during National Apprenticeship Week 2022. The additional fair, held at The Hub attracted 280 visitors.