Photo: Student Ambassadors and L3 Journalism student with Robert Halfon

Harlow MP Robert Halfon has successfully hosted his 10th annual Jobs & Apprenticeships Fair at the Latton Bush Centre in Harlow, attracting 1000’s of people from Harlow and the surrounding area.

The event, which is primarily aimed at students and job seekers, is a great opportunity for those either seeking employment or looking to upskill in their current profession to find employment, as well as unlocking future pathways. 

This year’s number of attendees was expected to break last year’s record of 4,000. Students and staff from the local Mark Hall Academy, Sir Frederick Gibberd College and Passmores Academy had the opportunity to talk with numerous employers such as Essex Police, NHS England and Harlow College.

Karen, who was representing NHS England at the Fair said: “Today gives the opportunity for people to consider the NHS as a future employer. Quite often people think the NHS is just doctors and nurses, so this is our chance to say we are so much more than that. We’re here to promote all of our vacancies and for people to hopefully consider the Princess Alexandra Hospital as a future employer.”

Harlow MP Robert Halfon is also the Minister for State (Education), having held the post since October 2022. He was also the first ever MP to employ an apprentice at his Westminster offices. 

Speaking about the event, Robert said: “I’m very proud of this year’s Jobs Fair. A lot of preparation goes into this event, we have to get sponsorship and work a year in advance to get the event running. I do this because I want people to get apprenticeships and jobs. 

Covid had a massive effect because the country shut down for almost two years and it was the biggest shock to happen to the country since World War II, but we’re getting back and we’re growing the economy. We have 60 employers here today who want to offer jobs. It’s been hard but there are amazing businesses in Harlow that want to offer jobs and apprenticeships.”

This article was written by Level 3 Journalism & Media student Tom Whitby