Students from Bedford College, part of The Bedford College Group, gained hands-on business experience by hosting the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce Networking Meeting at Bedford College.

This was part of a special Student Takeover initiative delivered in partnership with the Chamber to kick off National Apprenticeship Week activities across the Group.

The event saw 15 students from Business and related course areas take a leading role in welcoming and supporting guests, liaising with employers, and helping to ensure the networking session ran smoothly. The takeover gave students the chance to build confidence and develop key employability skills by working directly with professionals in a live business environment.

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Chamber of Commerce visit
Chamber of Commerce visit

Strong support from local business

The event attracted strong support from the local business community, with 32 businesses in attendance.

Proceedings opened with an address from Justin Richardson, CEO at Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, followed by a keynote address from Gina Bubbins, Director of Business Engagement and Partnerships at The Bedford College Group, highlighting the importance of building strong links between education and industry.

Invaluable experience and engagement

Gina Bubbins said:
“It was fantastic to see our students step up with confidence and professionalism and play such an active role in hosting this event. Experiences like this are invaluable, as they allow students to develop the skills employers are looking for and gain insight into the world of business networking. We are proud to work with Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce to provide opportunities that truly support student progression.”

Paula Devine, Head of Membership & Global Trade Services at Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, added:

“The Student Takeover was a brilliant success, and it was inspiring to see the students engaging with local employers in such a professional way. Our members really valued the chance to connect at Bedford College, and the event highlighted the talent and potential of young people in Bedfordshire. Strengthening collaboration between businesses and education is vital, and this event demonstrated exactly why.”

The Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce Student Takeover initiative reflects a shared commitment between The Bedford College Group and the Chamber to support the development of future talent and strengthen relationships between education providers and the local business community.

Find out more

To find out more about business courses available across The Bedford College Group, visit: https://bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk/subjects/business-management/

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