CTP Online Training Fair

The event provided a virtual environment similar to a physical fair and we had record attendance for any CTP event to date! This event offered over 840 Service leavers from across the world the chance to speak both publicly and privately with training providers and to view information on the variety of courses available. One attendee summed it up; ‘I think this is a very novel way of reaching out to the audience. Likewise, it allows those of us who may have difficulties travelling to still take part in events such as this. The resources area was very useful too as everything was in one place.’

A key advantage for those attending was the ability to access the fair from anywhere with a broadband internet connection; one attendee said 'I am currently based in Afghanistan and this is such a great event – it’s been great to actually be speaking to someone who can answer my questions instantly!' Another Service leaver visiting the fair highlighted the benefits of the public chat facility, saying ‘the observation of questions from others saves asking them yourself and stops consultants repeating themselves.’

54 preferred suppliers exhibited at the event, and could be viewed in the Directory (shown left). One Service leaver commented that, 'the variety of providers was great, I was unsure what I wanted to do once I left the RAF, now I have a better idea of what's available outside my RAF shell.' Attendees were able to search through the training providers by location and sector; one commented, 'I was able to quickly narrow my search to the exact courses/training that I required.'

The online environment was new to many in attendance, but one visitor commented that he was impressed by the 'clear instructions in the introductory videos.' Whilst another said ‘The personal profiles and photos of people attending made me feel more comfortable.’

CTP staff were on hand at the CTP booth and public lounge area throughout the event to answer queries from Service leavers on not only training questions but also a wide range of others relating to resettlement in general; ‘Many thanks CTP for your service today which has been wonderful, especially your on hand quick responses!’

We hope all who attended enjoyed the fair and found it to be helpful in researching the training options available; one Service leaver highlighted the benefits as, 'being able to speak to so many people from various industries from the comfort of my own home. A worthwhile experience that will help with my preparation for resettlement.'

Watch this space for details of future events!