Visitors seeking work in Hackney were able to try out various activities and receive guidance from college representatives during a national event at job centres.

The gathering took place at the Hillman Street Job Centre Plus and was organised by New City College as part of Careers Week and Colleges Week 2026.

Almost 150 individuals participated in the sessions, which highlighted further education and professional development.

The initiative also sought to back New City College’s Stop the Cuts campaign, which pushes for continued investment in adult education. Attendees discovered options in construction, business, information technology, media, catering and other sectors through practical workshops and displays.

Omar, an aspiring student, expressed that he had a productive experience and rated it highly. He stated that he obtained all the necessary information to help him determine his next steps in a construction-related career and thanked those who provided assistance.

The programme featured a plumbing exercise, cake decoration alongside hospitality instructors, and instruction on clothing alterations using sewing equipment.

Katie Stafford, vice principal at New City College, remarked that it was encouraging to witness such excellent attendance at their takeover of the Hillman Job Centre in Hackney.

She explained that the college focuses on equipping local people with the abilities, self-assurance and credentials required to secure employment or advance in their professions. By collaborating directly with the job centre and presenting their adult learning programmes to the local population, they are simplifying the process for individuals to change careers, develop new skills and progress.

The college additionally showcased its comprehensive support offerings, including childcare facilities.

Personnel and learners from the New City College Nursery were present to outline the childcare options accessible to students. Numerous attendees also uncovered possibilities they had not previously contemplated.

Vice Principal Katie Stafford observed that the event illustrated how beneficial collaborations between organisations and communities can be in assisting individuals to advance. New City College provides numerous adult education programmes, with many available at no cost to participants.