A free careers fair bringing together more than 35 employers, universities and education providers is taking place in Altrincham this half-term.
The event will be held at Altrincham College on Green Lane this Wednesday 28 October, from 3pm to 6pm.
Open to students in Years 9 to 13 from all schools and sixth form colleges, the fair will give young people and their parents or carers the chance to explore career options and speak directly to potential employers.
The event is the brainchild of local teacher and Careers Leader Hannah Mitchelmore, who was inspired to organise it following national reports about the growing number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET).
Government estimates suggest around one in eight young people fall into this category.
Hannah said: "As a Careers Leader and secondary school teacher, I am very aware of the challenges facing young people today.
"While the term NEET is nothing new and this growing issue cannot be solved overnight, we do know that young people who have meaningful interactions with employers are significantly less likely to become NEET.
"That is where this careers fair comes in.
"I wanted to create an event that is accessible to all students, where they have the time for genuine conversations with employers rather than feeling rushed, as they often might at a school-based event.
"I also wanted parents and carers to be able to attend and be part of those discussions."
More than 35 exhibitors have already signed up, representing sectors including healthcare, law, engineering, construction, architecture, policing and higher education.
Among those attending will be Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Greater Manchester Police, KPMG, Kier, Express Solicitors, North West Ambulance Service, Trafford Council and Pozzoni Architecture.
Universities represented will include Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan, Sheffield, Chester, Keele, Salford and Liverpool John Moores, alongside local colleges and apprenticeship providers.
Hannah said the response from employers had been particularly encouraging.
"Employer engagement is at the heart of this event, and I am keen for students to take that first step and start conversations with employers. The earlier these conversations happen the better.
"I'm a firm believer that you never know where a conversation might lead. Some of my students have secured work experience placements and even apprenticeships simply through a discussion that started at a careers fair."
The event is sponsored by Express Solicitors, and it will also support KidsCan Childhood Cancer Charity.
Attendance is free, but booking is essential - students and their parents or carers can reserve their places through Eventbrite.
