North East recruiter to promote ‘workforce of the future’ with New College Durham

North East recruiter Westray Recruitment Consultants has announced a partnership with New College Durham (NCD) aimed at retaining talent in the region.

The tie-up will promote opportunities for local employment and career development to students as they head off into the world of work.

By pooling their business partner networks, Westray and NCD will help students access work opportunities that meet their needs in terms of both career development and financial goals.

Westray Recruitment Consultants’ commercial director, Ashleigh Wright, said: “As well as networking, employers at the breakfast event will have the opportunity to take a stand free of charge, where they can speak directly to the students and display their company information.

“This is an excellent opportunity for businesses to connect with the workforce of the future. In a Post-Brexit Britain, there is predicted to be skill shortages and lack of easily accessible talent.”

She added: “This partnership looks to inform and strengthen business and education links, meaning there is the potential to reduce skills shortages.”

Westray and NCD’s first joint event under the partnership is due to take place at the college’s Framwellgate Moor premises on December 11. It will have a ‘meet the students’ theme, focusing on putting employers in direct contact with students seeking work placements.

New College Durham vice principal Dawn Fairlamb commented: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Westray Recruitment. Ensuring our students gain work placement opportunities is a vital part of their studies.

“These placements mean they develop the skills they will need to succeed when they go on to enter the workplace. In addition, it allows businesses to create a pool of talent for their own recruitment activities.”

She continued: Westray have fantastic links and relationships with local employers, which will only enhance our students’ opportunities.“