Dartmoor students given chance to explore bright futures at Exeter careers fair

Hundreds of students, teachers and employers attended the Bright Futures Fair on 25 November, organised by Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust.

The event, which was aimed at Year 10 and Year 12 students from Tavistock, Okehampton and Holsworthy colleges, offered them the chance to explore a range of education, training and employment pathways as they prepare for life after school. 

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The University of Exeter hosted the fair, with activities based in the Great Hall.

Organisers said the setting helped introduce students to a higher education environment while bringing together employers, training providers and education organisations.

The event was divided into themed areas covering employment, universities and higher education, apprenticeships and post-16 options. 

ABOVE: Universities, apprenticeships and employers come together at Exeter event (Image: DMAT)

Higher education stall-holders included University of Plymouth, Plymouth Marjon University, Exeter College and Callywith College.

Employment and apprenticeship stall-holders covered a wide range of options, with stall-holders including Kier, Biffa, NHS and Web Recruit.

Students were able to speak directly with representatives, ask questions and find out more about the skills, qualifications and experience needed for different career routes.

A quieter space was provided in the Sanctuary for students who required it, helping to ensure the event was accessible to all attendees. 

Smaller group workshops and interactive exhibits also took place, allowing more focused discussions in a supportive setting.

Melissa Trudgill, Community Engagement Lead at Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust, said:

“It was really exciting to hold this event at the University of Exeter, one of the Trust’s member organisations. Students really did learn a lot from the experience and were inspired to consider different pathways for the future.”

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“Our central team gave up their time to support the event, and it was encouraging to see young people engaging with new ideas and feeling more confident about their next steps,” she added.

According to organisers, stallholders reported strong engagement from students throughout the day, with many taking time to ask detailed questions and explore different options.

The Trust said the aim of the event was to help remove barriers to careers information and ensure students had access to guidance regardless of background or ability.

Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust has confirmed that the Bright Futures Fair will return next year, with the next event planned for Tuesday 24 November 2026.