Lewisham College hosted the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) 50+ Jobs Fair aimed at individuals over 50 seeking employment in South London.

With over 20 exhibitors from various sectors, the jobs fair provided a comprehensive platform for job seekers to explore a wide range of employment opportunities. These opportunities included current vacancies and potential courses from organisations such as the South London & Maudsley NHS, Transport for London, Ardmore Group, Five Rivers Fostering, Zen Educate, the Metropolitan Police, TMS Protection, Mulalley, and Joe Brennan Training (JBT).

Attendee Carole Dane shared her perspective on the event: "The DWP's 50+ Jobs Fair at Lewisham College has been brilliant. There were lots of employers present with plenty of job opportunities to share, so with the discussions I’ve had, and information received I’m hopeful that the event will prove beneficial for my job search."

Joe Brennan, from Joe Brennan Training, said: “Job fairs like this are important for us as a flexi-job apprenticeship agency. We can identify people who have done a diploma in their chosen trade and help get them ready for the next stage. We'd employ them and place them with contractors on-site to get workplace experience with a view to gaining a job in the industry at the end of it. Lewisham College offers a range of courses in the various trades, and we have had discussions with potential candidates for us, so this event has certainly been worthwhile."

The 50+ Jobs Fair coincided with Older Workers Week, providing a prime opportunity to underscore the advantages of hiring individuals later in life.

Esther Vitte, 50+ Lead for South London District at DWP, said: “We have a great working partnership with Lewisham College, so following the successful 50 Plus Jobs Fair we held with the College last year when the opportunity came to do it again, we grabbed it. We have a higher population of people over 50, so we really need to recognise the skills and value that they can bring."

Candice McCausland, Assistant Principal for Skills and Adult Education at Lewisham College, expressed her enthusiasm: "We are proud to partner with the DWP to bring a diverse group of employers to our community members aged 50 and over. The insights shared by these companies on career pathways, employment opportunities, and apprenticeships are invaluable for those looking to enhance their professional journeys. Our collaboration with the DWP is dedicated to empowering adults to pursue their goals and aspirations. By hosting this event for the second consecutive year, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to skills development. We are eager to continue building partnerships that will create even more opportunities for our community."

Lewisham College remains steadfast in its commitment to helping older learners achieve their goals. It welcomes thousands of adult learners every year and offers flexible learning options to suit busy lifestyles, ensuring that everyone feels valued and included in their pursuit of education.

Find out more about training opportunities, vacancies, and upcoming events at lewisham.ac.uk/free-courses.