Twenty-five employers showcased their business and wider sectors to 50 students, aged 15 and 16, and their families at a career inspiration event hosted by Mansfield’s The Brunts Academy, a member of the Evolve Trust.

Carl Atkin, head at Brunts, said: “The evening was about opening the minds of a selected group of Year 10s to the wide range of career opportunities with local employers.

“Employers play a key role in inspiring young people to achieve their potential and understand the importance of English and maths qualifications in the workplace.”

Employers which supported the event included Warburtons, Lindhurst Engineering, Dijitul UK, Pendragon, Woodheads, County Battery Services, Mansfield & Ashfield 2020, Dalmation System Ltd, Army, Visit Nottingham, Sherwood Trust Hospitals, Confetti, Laing O’Rourke, Mansfield District Council and SEMTA.

Richard Fuller, of County Battery Services and a enterprise adviser for the academy, said: “It was an inspirational evening and having the opportunity to talk to a small group of students with their families was a great way to tell career stories about the workplace and the wealth of opportunities available on their doorstep.”

The event was organised by Berni Dickinson, director of marketing and community engagement for the trust, and Jane Evans, director of learning English at the academy.

A number of students secured work experience placements during the evening.

Student Nathan Ellis, pictured above with Dave Hartshorne, of dijitul, said: “It was useful and I have been offered a work experience placement with Dijitul, which I am excited about.”

Plans are being made to organise a bigger event next year for all students in years 10 and 11.