Pupils from across Argyll and Bute will be given the opportunity to plan for their future at a higher education convention in Mid Argyll next week.

The convention is being hosted by Argyll and Bute Council and UCAS, with support from Skills Development Scotland (SDS), and will enable young people to find out more about careers, college and university.

The event will take place at Lochgilphead Joint Campus, Kilmory, on Wednesday 30th September 2015 from 9.30am until 1pm and will bring together representatives from 25 higher and further education institutions across the UK who will be on hand with information on courses, accommodation and funding.

There will also be representation from six local employers who can offer 'learn while you work' graduate opportunities, internships and work experience opportunities.

S5 and S6 pupils from all secondary schools have been invited to the free event and parents, carers and college students wanting to learn more about further education are also welcome to attend.

Argyll and Bute Council's Policy Lead for Education, Councillor Rory Colville said, "In Argyll and Bute we can be proud of the fact that over 90 per cent of our school leavers moved on to higher education, training or employment last year.

“This is above the national average and highlights the efforts we have made to support young people and enable them to take advantage of all opportunities available to them.

“We want to give our young people the opportunity to grow and the convention is a wonderful opportunity for young people and their parents to find out the facts about all the options available to them by offering access to the experts in one location at one time.”

SDS careers advisers will be on hand to provide impartial, one-on-one, advice and information but even for those who cannot attend on the day, help is still available.  The SDS web service My World of Work, www.myworldofwork.co.uk is available to offer advice, ranging from information on courses and applications to tips on adapting to life on campus.

Digital World will be at the convention to show the opportunities available in the digital technology sector and talks will be delivered by a first year student, a recent graduate and a representative from the Higher Education Liaison Officers Association (HELOA) regarding personal statements.

Further details are available from:  karen.miller@argyll-bute.gov.uk or telephone 01369 708576.