The event was designed with learners' aspirations at the forefront, offering them the opportunity to explore their future possibilities in one place. As the event gained momentum, it was opened up to other learners across the county, which provided a fantastic opportunity to meet new faces. Learners also reconnected with old acquaintances from other providers, creating a great social and networking experience.

The goal was to bring together post-16 providers, employers, and advice and support services to showcase their offerings in the most engaging way possible. 

A wide variety of interactive activities were available for learners to experience. These included making newspaper modules with seeds, exploring artefacts and engaging in discussions, creating badges, trying boat building with recycled materials, solving puzzles to open the “vault,” watching a chocolate-making demonstration, experimenting with music production, and taking on a hairdressing challenge—while also learning about next steps, future options, further training, volunteering, internships, and apprenticeships.

The organisers of the StepAhead event said: “With thanks to everyone who made the event possible, and to our sponsor, Cornwall Council, for providing funding through the DfE-funded Supported Internship grant, which aims to double the number of supported internships across the UK.

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“We are excited to announce that we plan to run this event again next year, and many employers and providers who were unable to attend in December have already expressed interest in participating. If you would like to be part of this event—either as an exhibitor or by bringing young people, —please share your interest with Step into Learning by emailing info@stepintolearning.org.uk”