More than 100 Year 9 students from schools across Solihull gained an insight into the world of work at the borough's first-ever Future Ready Day.

The event, organised by Solihull Careers Hub, took place at Solihull College & University Centre's Woodlands Campus and brought together students and employers for a day of interactive workshops and career-focused activities.

Designed to help young people explore different career options before undertaking work experience placements in Year 10, the event welcomed students from five schools across the borough.

Students took part in a series of employer-led workshops covering a range of industries, with sessions delivered by organisations including Aston Villa Foundation, Graham, VINCI Building, Birmingham Hospice, Meriden Adventure Playground and Balfour Beatty VINCI.

They also had the opportunity to try hands-on skills sessions led by the college, including hairdressing, plastering, and health and social care.

Harry Whale, Technical Apprentice at VINCI Building, said the event helped introduce students to career opportunities they may not have previously considered.

"The students were really engaged, and I think they've got a lot out of the workshop," he said.

"We've introduced them to roles in the construction industry that they may not have known about before today, such as project management, quality surveying and planning.

"Events like this give young people a better understanding of the day-to-day realities of working on a construction site.

"Hopefully, it will help them plan their future careers."

Cllr Heather Delaney, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council's Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy, Business and Skills, praised the success of the event.

"It was wonderful to see how engaged the students were at the workshops," she said.

"Events like this are valuable not only for young people, who gain insight into different careers and industries, but also for employers, who have the opportunity to learn more about their future workforce.

"I would like to thank all the schools and employers who helped make this event such a success."

Further information about the summer workshops is available here.