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CV workshops, apprenticeship support and self-employment drop-in sessions - just a few of the free events planned for Portsmouth Aspirations Week 2023, which will kick off on Monday 16 January.
Portsmouth City Council has invited schools, early years settings, businesses and community organisations to join them in helping residents of all ages to voice and take steps towards realising their future goals.

Events running during Aspirations Week will give children, young adults, and residents the opportunity to explore further education options and future career prospects, as well as broader aspirations such as getting fit or learning a new hobby.

Cllr Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for children, families and education said:

“The week is an opportunity to inspire children, young people and adults to think about their futures, and help them to understand the steps they can take to ensure their own success and the help available to them.

“I am pleased that so many schools, businesses and community organisations will be taking part in Portsmouth Aspirations Week 2023 and look forward to seeing what the week entails. Remember, it’s never too late to learn new things!”

Last year’s Aspirations Week saw more than 30 schools, more than 90 early year’s settings, and 21 local employers taking part. The week saw an increase of 47% in registrations to adult education courses in January and February, compared to the same period the year before.

For Portsmouth Aspirations Week 2023, a range of employment workshops and webinars are being planned, to help adults to upskill and engage in a variety of new careers.

Some highlights include:

Drop in sessions for adults

Monday 16th   9.30am-12pm, The Learning Place, Multiply Money crash course: Improve your budgeting skills and develop your understanding of money and how it can be managed.

Tuesday 17th  1pm-3pm, The Learning Place, Relaxation and Hand Massage: Thought about returning to learning but not sure where to start? Join us for this free, informal workshop where you will learn some simple relaxation techniques and find out more about forthcoming courses at The Learning Place.

Wednesday 18th 10am-3pm, The Learning Place, CV writing: Want to write that perfect CV to help you get that dream job? Come along to this practical session for hints, tips and to get some support.

Wednesday 18th 10am-12pm, The Learning Place, Chocolate Fractions: Understand fractions through the wonder of chocolate! Come along not just for the delicious chocolate but to develop your existing maths skills!

Wednesday 18th, 5pm-7pm, The Learning Place, Chocolate Fractions: Understand fractions through the wonder of chocolate! Come along not just for the delicious chocolate but to develop your existing maths skills!

Wednesday 18th, 1pm-3pm, The Learning Place, Apprenticeship Tea and Chat: Do you want to find out more about apprenticeships? This informal drop in is suitable for managers, staff or anyone who would just like to find out more about the benefits of an apprenticeship.

Wednesday 18th, 12pm-1.30pm, Somerstown Hub, Aspirations Fair: Aged between 16-25? Not in education or training? Come along to meet with local providers and explore education and training opportunities and courses.

Wed 18th, 9.30am-3.30pm, Cosham Library, Crowdfunder 1:2:1: For businesses, community organisations or charities looking to make great ideas happen, join us to find out how to run a Crowdfunder campaign. There are currently 2 funds available with match funding of up to £5000.

Thursday 19th 1pm-3pm, The Learning Place, IT skills check: Do you want to get to grips with computers or brush up on your computer skills but not sure where to start? Come along and meet one of our friendly IT tutors who will chat to you and guide you to an appropriate course.

Friday 20th 10am- 12pm, Southsea Library, Multiply – Chocolate Fractions: Understand fractions through the wonder of chocolate! Come along not just for the delicious chocolate but to develop your existing maths skills!

Friday 20th, 2pm – 4pm, Central library, Chocolate Fractions: Understand fractions through the wonder of chocolate! Come along not just for the delicious chocolate but to develop your existing maths skills!

Activities in schools

Health & Social350+ NHS Careers StaffThis presentation centres around the question ‘Where could you fit in the NHS?’. Nearly ALL GCSE subjects lead into an NHS role. Do a job you’re passionate about with us!Years 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13
Law EnforcementRachel Hickton /
Carl Michie
This presentation is an introduction to the apprenticeship routes available at Border Force.Year 10, 11, 12, 13
Law EnforcementAiste ValiukeviciuteThis presentation is an overview of careers opportunities within Hampshire Constabulary.Year 12, 13
Hair & BeautyBernadette AranibarThis presentation is an introduction to the apprenticeship routes available in the hairdressing industry. This is perfect for students who are interested in exploring hair and beauty after year 11.Year 11
Marketing & CommunicationsRobin Lander BrinkleyThis presentation covers marketing and public relations and will explain what these careers involve and how they are evolving. This is a workshop session that will include class discussion and interactive activities, such as writing their own marketing and social media content.Years 10, 11, 12, 13
Media & CommunicationsAlec ChapmanThis presentation will centre around Alec’s own personal business and career journey.Years 11, 12, 13
Regeneration – Major ProjectsCourtney VychodilWe are looking at plans for a new large open green space in the city centre on the former Tricorn Centre site. This is part of bigger regeneration plans that include new homes, new community facilities, retail, hospitality and leisure use, new walking and cycling routes.

We have a fun and interactive workshop for students so they can share their ideas and priorities for the area.

At the same time we can talk about what regeneration means, other projects in the city and careers opportunities in the sector.

Year 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13
Marine/MaritimeChris Hatter
Ben McInnes
Joe Jordan
This presentation aims to introduce students to the many careers available within the maritime Industry.Year 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13
Armed ForcesSGT Paul FarmerThis presentation includes a general overview of careers in the Royal Navy, covering a range of topics.Year 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13
ConstructionHolly BrownThe Empower Session aims to enlighten and spread awareness of careers in the construction industry through traditional and non-traditional routes. This session demonstrates that construction is a career for all.Year 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14

Portsmouth Aspirations Week sets the scene for further careers and apprenticeship activities in following weeks including EBP South’s ‘Get Inspired’ event for school pupils at Portsmouth Guildhall on 25 January 2023, National Apprenticeship week from 6-12 February 2023, and ‘Become a teaching assistant’ information event on Tuesday 28 February 2023.

To find out more about Portsmouth Aspirations Week, as well as a list of activities, please visit: Portsmouth aspirations week 2023 – Portsmouth City Council

Ends.