Tapping into talent, unlocking potential, and inspiring the next generation.

C2S connects young people with forward-thinking organisations and real career opportunities. Together, we’re building a stronger workforce and driving regional economic growth.

Connecting Talent with Opportunity

Educational Outreach Live is an annual event designed to connect students with businesses, career opportunities, and educational pathways in Gloucestershire.

With 2,000 students from over 30 schools attending the inaugural event in 2024, and over 55 exhibitors from diverse sectors—including large corporations, SMEs, and local organisations—this event provides students with the chance to explore a wide range of career options, from apprenticeships to higher education, while engaging with industry professionals.

For businesses, Educational Outreach Live offers a unique platform to showcase their organisation, engage with the next generation of talent, and contribute to the growth of our region’s economy. The event aims to inspire and retain local talent, helping businesses build lasting connections with future employees.

Join us this year for this exciting event that encourages collaboration, innovation, and the continued success of both young people and businesses in our region.

Why C2S Created This Initiative

C2S launched Educational Outreach Live to help future-proof regional businesses by connecting them directly with the next generation of talent.

Recognising the need for a sustainable and skilled workforce, this initiative gives businesses the chance to engage with young people, showcase the wide range of career opportunities available, and provide a clear pathway into the world of work. It offers a route for young people to connect with local employers, inspiring them to explore opportunities close to home and encouraging them to build their futures right here in the region.

By building these connections, C2S supports businesses in attracting, developing, and retaining top talent—helping to secure a thriving local economy and a brighter future for all.

Be Part of A Game-Changing Event

Joining Educational Outreach Live means playing a crucial role in shaping the future of young people in our region. By supporting this event, you help inspire the next generation, showcasing career opportunities that are right on their doorstep. You’ll have the chance to help students become work-ready by providing insights into the skills and experiences they need to thrive in today’s workforce.

This event is an opportunity to connect with young talent, build lasting relationships, and ensure they are aware of the diverse opportunities available to them locally—whether in education, apprenticeships, or direct employment. Your participation will not only support the development of these young people but also contribute to the growth and success of the local economy by keeping talent within the region.

Be part of this transformative experience and make a lasting impact on both the future of young people and the future of your business.

Educational Outreach Live
Official 2025 Programme

C2S Educational Outreach Live 2025 brings together nearly 2,000 students, educators, and businesses at Cheltenham Racecourse for a day of inspiration and opportunity. The official programme showcases the full agenda, profiles of exhibitors and speakers, and a sitemap to help navigate the event. It also includes dedicated student resources designed to support learning, career exploration, and connections with employers, ensuring every student/attendee gains the most from this unique experience.

Register your Interest for Educational Outreach 2026

“Equipping young people with the confidence and skills they need in the jobs market is absolutely vital. From ideas about the sort of careers on offer to providing tips on internships and interviews, this sort of event helps smash down barriers. I’m so proud of the work being done by local businesses - it will benefit everyone and ultimately strengthen our economy too.”

"I just wanted to thank you for today. Five Acres High School thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to speak to so many different employers and post-16 providers, and the event genuinely inspired our students."

Event Highlights

Meet Like-Minded Businesses

Share your passion for developing talent and strengthening the local community, creating valuable connections that can lead to future collaborations and opportunities.

Speed Networking

Students connect with professionals to explore career paths, gain insights, and learn about different industries. A highly popular activity, it offers valuable, direct engagement with business leaders.

Financial Wellbeing Workshops

Helping students develop essential money management skills, covering saving, budgeting, pensions, PAYE, National Insurance, and credit scores to prepare them for work and adult life.

Personal & Career Development Workshops

Supporting students with mental health strategies to manage stress and build resilience, alongside CV writing guidance to help them present their skills effectively to employers.

Free Access

The event is fully inclusive, offering free access to schools, students, parents, and all educational organisations for students Year 10 upwards, ensuring that everyone can participate and benefit from the valuable resources and connections available.

First Aid Training

Running hands-on, engaging sessions for students, teaching vital life-saving skills like responding to cardiac arrest, using a defibrillator, and other first aid techniques. These practical skills prepare them for emergency situations, both personally and in the workplace.

Joint Headline Sponsors

As the proud headline sponsor of C2S Educational Outreach Live 2025, L3Harris Technologies is delighted to continue supporting this fantastic initiative. The event plays a vital role in helping students understand the world of work while raising awareness of the exciting early career opportunities available across Gloucestershire.

C2S Educational Outreach Live brings together hundreds of students from diverse local schools and a wide range of businesses from across the region. For L3Harris, it’s an invaluable opportunity to connect with the next generation of innovators and showcase how rewarding a career in technology and defence can be. With multiple apprenticeship and graduate pathways on offer, we’re passionate about inspiring young people to see how their skills and curiosity can make a real difference.

— Nicky Tabram, Managing Director – Intelligence and Cyber International (EMEA), L3Harris Technologies

Proud to announce the headline sponsors for Educational Outreach Live 2025 is First Thought Care Services.

First Thought Care Services are an organisation passionate about investing in people, nurturing talent and empowering individuals through learning that is key to building stronger communities and brighter futures. Founded in 2020, First Thought Care Services provides high-quality, person centred care and support across Gloucestershire and surrounding areas. They deliver a unique model of continuous supported living, alternative education provision, community outreach, and tailored intervention support.

With a dedicated team of over 80 professionals, they prioritise training, upskilling and leadership development across all levels. They actively encourage lived experience, diversity, and fresh perspectives in their workforce, helping every tea member grow their confidence and capabilities.

Find out more at First Thought Care Services – Care, Nursing Agency, Nursing, Care

Join These Inspiring Businesses And Be Part of The Solution

Share your passion for developing talent and strengthening the local community, creating valuable connections that can lead to future collaborations and opportunities.