Looking for a job? Free Chesterfield careers fair for young people is first of its kind in UK

My Future has been launched to help employers reach budding apprentices and provide careers information to Year 11 and 13 students amid the Covid-19 crisis.

It is free for young people to use and showcases up to 100 businesses, education and training providers in a virtual careers fair setting.

MORE: 21 adorable photos of babies in Chesterfield in the 90s and noughties - is your newborn pictured?

As well as providing information about the business, apprentice positions with the company are also advertised.

My Future has been developed by Chesterfield Borough Council, in partnership with Destination Chesterfield and the D2N2 North Derbyshire Careers Hub.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of the council, said: “The development of My Future has led to a truly innovative digital platform providing access to a wide range of careers advice, employment support, apprenticeships, skills and training programmes, all under one virtual roof.

"I hope that My Future will help young people to build the career and future that they want, so that we can continue to build a thriving borough together.”

MORE: Chesterfield martial arts instructor smashes challenge to walk a million steps this month in aid of hospice

Ahead of its launch to employers, the D2N2 North Derbyshire Careers Hub, which works with 21 schools and colleges across Chesterfield and north Derbyshire, has urged school leavers to access the My Future platform.

On GCSE results day, more than 150 young people logged on and spent on average 207 minutes exploring the virtual careers fair.

James Brand, D2N2 LEP board member and managing director of United Cast Bar, a Chesterfield-based business, said: “My Future is a fantastic platform which we were delighted to get involved with.

"It’s a great opportunity for businesses to reach out to young people during these challenging times.”

Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield manager, added: “Everyone has worked tremendously hard to get the platform up and running.

"We have been overwhelmed by the support and involvement of businesses and training providers to make My Future happen and support local school leavers during this challenging time.”

Chesterfield-based Oasis Studios has designed the platform using innovative 360expo software.

To find out more about the many opportunities available to young people, visit the My Future site.

Thank you to all who support local journalism with a print subscription. The events of 2020 mean trusted, local journalism is more reliant than ever on your support. We couldn't do it without you. Please subscribe at www.localsubsplus.co.uk so we can keep campaigning on your behalf. Stay safe.