South Eastern Regional College (SERC), in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland and the Department for Communities (DfC) Employer Services Branch, recently hosted an employer engagement event designed to support adult learners as they explore potential career opportunities.

The event, attended by 40 students currently studying either the Level 3 Access Diploma in Foundation Studies or Restart, a course for adult returners, introduced participants to seven local employers offering a range of flexible and varied career paths.

Titled Think Differently, the event featured a panel discussion and networking session, encouraging dialogue around innovative approaches to employment and lifelong learning. Catherine Shipman, SERC's Head of Engagement and Development, said: "This event demonstrates the power of collaboration in shaping inclusive career pathways and in supporting those returning to education. Employers were glad to engage with motivated learners, and the adult students benefited from networking opportunities and the chance to gain practical insights to career pathways."

Joanne McMullan, Head of Labour Solutions at Invest NI, said: "Access to a strong skills pipeline and diverse labour pool is vital to a strong regional economy with good jobs and improved productivity. Addressing our high rates of economic inactivity and promoting life-long learning will be key to ensuring we have the workforce we need for the future. Events like this between industry and education are a critical step in making this happen."