On Friday, 16th May 2025, Newquay Community Orchard will transform into a dynamic hub of career exploration as it hosts the inaugural Empowering Newquay’s Futures Careers Marketplace—a one-of-a-kind event designed to connect young people and job seekers with exciting opportunities across Cornwall’s diverse industries.
Bringing together 50 businesses from sectors as diverse as marine, engineering, food and drink, agriculture, hospitality and higher education, the fair will showcase the incredible range of career pathways available in Newquay and across the region. For students looking for inspiration for their next steps, employers seeking future talent, and job seekers considering new opportunities, this event will mark a key moment for career development in Cornwall.
Liz Wright, Town Councillor for Porth and Tretherras with Newquay Town Council, says: “Empowering Newquay’s Future is about bringing together local businesses, young people, and the wider community to showcase the incredible opportunities right here in our town. By connecting future talent with local enterprises, we’re not just inspiring the next generation—we’re building a stronger, more resilient local economy where young people can see a future for themselves in Newquay.”
A unique setting for a unique event
Unlike traditional careers fairs held in schools or conference halls, this event will take place predominantly outside at the Newquay Community Orchard, an award-winning social enterprise at the forefront of environmental and social sustainability. As a space dedicated to education, wellbeing, and community empowerment, the Orchard will offer an engaging, outdoor setting that breaks the mould of typical career events.
The fair is being co-delivered by Newquay Town Council, Newquay Orchard, Newquay BID, Newquay Tretherras School, Treviglas Academy, Trenance Learning Academy, Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly Careers Hub, Blystra Arts, Groundswell, and Young People Cornwall – demonstrating the strength of collaboration between education, business, and community organisations in Cornwall.
Bridging the gap between employers and future talent
Students from Newquay Tretherras School and Treviglas Academy will attend the event in structured cohorts, ensuring they have the opportunity to speak directly with employers, gain insights into various industries, and explore future career pathways.
With businesses actively looking to engage with young talent, the event provides a rare chance to make personal connections that could shape students’ futures and widen the future talent pool for businesses in Cornwall.
An open invitation to job seekers and the community
The fair isn’t just for students—anyone looking to explore new career options or connect with local employers is encouraged to attend. Whether you’re seeking your first job, considering a career change, or wanting to network with local businesses, this event offers a wealth of opportunities in one place.
The Empowering Newquay’s Futures Careers Fair is also open to young people at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), offering a vital opportunity to explore pathways into education, work experience, and employment. This event aims to highlight the value of further education and practical work experience in developing the social and employability skills necessary for long-term success. By directly connecting with local employers, young people will gain first-hand insight into the wide range of career opportunities available on their doorstep in Cornwall, demonstrating that exciting futures are possible without having to leave the region.
Newquay Orchard plays a key role in providing alternative learning opportunities for young people who may not thrive in traditional educational settings. Its Growing Futures programme offers a practical, hands-on learning environment as an alternative to college or sixth form, helping individuals develop confidence, independence, and real-world skills in a quiet, friendly, and non-pressured outdoor setting. This careers fair aligns with the Orchard’s mission to support all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances, in finding pathways that work for them.
Supporting Newquay Orchard’s community mission
As a community-driven social enterprise, Newquay Orchard relies on public support to continue its valuable work in education, sustainability, and community wellbeing. Donations are welcomed as part of the event to help maintain and expand its initiatives, which provide employment support, mental health resources, and sustainable food projects for local people. The recent visit of HRH King Charles III, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to Newquay Orchard on Monday, 10th February this year highlighted the Orchard’s role as a hub for environmental stewardship, education, and community engagement. During their tour, they met with volunteers, students, and staff, witnessing first-hand how the Orchard supports local people in gaining valuable skills and opportunities.
Dean Hodge, Venue Coordinator for Newquay Orchard: “This momentous visit serves as a reminder of Newquay Orchard’s commitment to fostering a sustainable future, not
just through environmental work but by equipping young people and job seekers with the skills and confidence to thrive. The event will embody the same values showcased during the royal visit—empowering individuals, strengthening the local economy, and ensuring a greener, more connected and more sustainable future for Cornwall.
For more information about the Empowering Newquay’s Futures event see:
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/3469790336661620/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/EmpoweringNewquaysFuture
LinkedIn Showcase: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/empowering-newquay-s-future/
