SOME of the region’s top firms are heading to Bolton to help local youngsters choose the right career path.

More than 70 organisations are coming together to give schoolchildren the chance to get a taste of the world of work, with interactive and hands-on demonstrations.

The event, called Skills North West, will be the region’s largest careers event. It takes place at Bolton Arena on February 3, 4 and 5.

The event is being held as part of wider moves to improve the long-term skills base of the area’s workforce — something that can help the economic development of the region by making sure the right people are going into the right jobs with the right training.

The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) and the North-west Regional Development Agency (NWDA) are behind the event.

Steven Broomhead, Chief Executive of the NWDA, said: “Skills North West is an excellent event that highlights the range of options available for students after their school days.

“Entering the world of work or higher education can be a huge change in people’s lives, which is why the NWDA is keen to support projects that make the transition easier.

“England’s North-west holds many opportunities for school leavers with employment opportunities across a wide range of sectors.

“We look forward to offering this year’s students even more opportunities and support that will lead to the future economic success of the region.”

Employers and organisations from across the region that have already booked to be a part of the event include Aircelle, BBC, Careers at Sea, Cogent, Lantra, Greater Manchester Police, the Financial Services Skills Council, Jaguar Land Rover, Lantra, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool John Moores University, The Manufacturing Institute, Manchester City Council, North-west Aerospace Alliance, North-west Apprenticeships, the RAF, Royal Navy and Army, SummitSkills, and the College of Law.

Group visitors are welcome to visit Skills North West. For more details and to book, call 01823 362800 or visit www.skillsnw.co.uk.