Strong Attendance and Positive Outcomes at Employment and Apprenticeship Fairs
Released: Friday 27 February 2026
Ards and North Down Borough Council is celebrating the success of two major employability events delivered through its Labour Market Partnership (LMP) this February - the Jobs, Support and Training Fair and the Apprenticeship Careers Fair. Together, the events attracted strong attendance from residents of all ages, providing tailored support, live job opportunities and practical pathways into work.
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Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum with Gareth Hawthorne, Factual and Educational Team - BBC and Ms Claire McAlorum, Chair of Governors, St Columbanus College.
Jobs and Apprenticeship Fair
Both events, funded by the Department for Communities, form part of the Council's ongoing commitment to helping people across the Borough access employment, upskill, and explore new careers.
The Jobs, Support and Training Fair welcomed 53 exhibitors showcasing a breadth of opportunities, with a particular focus on the Health and Social Care sector. Attendees connected directly with employers offering live vacancies, while support agencies provided CV guidance, interview preparation and advice on identifying skills, strengths and career options.
Visitors also had opportunities to explore training programmes, start‑up support and pathways to future employment, with many reporting that the advice and employer engagement gave them increased confidence to take their next career step.
The Apprenticeship Careers Fair provided school pupils, jobseekers and career changers with direct access to 33 employers, training organisations and further education providers. Attendees learned about apprenticeship routes across engineering, construction, technology, finance, hospitality, public services and health and social care.
Exhibitors offered insight into the skills and qualifications required for apprenticeship roles, while advisors supported individuals interested in retraining or upskilling. The event showcased apprenticeships as an accessible, practical pathway for earning while learning, helping people begin - and in many cases, change their career journey.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, said:
"Both events have been incredibly successful in connecting people with real opportunities, whether they are exploring apprenticeships, returning to work, or taking their first steps into a new career. The high level of participation demonstrates the appetite for practical support, and I want to thank all the employers, partners and support organisations who helped create such positive, informative experiences for residents across our Borough. By supporting people into work and helping them access skills development, we are strengthening both our local economy and the future resilience of our communities."
Labour Market Partnerships, which create targeted employment action plans for council areas, are funded by the Department for Communities, and allow for collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work.
The next initiative supporting employability across all sectors is taking place on Thursday 19 March, 11am-2pm at Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex. For more information please visit www.andbusiness.co.uk/andlmp
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Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum with Gareth Hawthorne, Factual and Educational Team - BBC and Ms Claire McAlorum, Chair of Governors, St Columbanus College.
