Future Pathways brings education, training and employment opportunities together to help families navigate life after school.
Young people and their families are invited to discover post-16 opportunities at Future Pathways, a free post-16 opportunities festival taking place at the University of Bedfordshire’s Bedford Campus on Saturday, 7 November, from 10am to 4pm.
The event will bring together education providers, employers, apprenticeship providers, training organisations, universities, colleges and support services, giving visitors the chance to explore different routes and speak directly to people who can help them plan their next steps.
Choosing what to do after school can feel daunting.
With a wide range of qualifications, training routes and career possibilities to consider, young people may be unsure where to begin.
Future Pathways aims to make those choices easier to understand by bringing opportunities together in one accessible setting.
Whether visitors are considering sixth form or college, interested in an apprenticeship, or keen to learn more about employment and longer-term university options, the festival will offer a chance to ask questions, compare pathways and discover possibilities they may not previously have considered.
Many routes to success
Parents and carers are encouraged to attend alongside young people, helping families explore the options together and start informed conversations about the future.
Martin Bonner, Headteacher of St Thomas More, who has worked with other education leaders in the area to organise the event said: “Every young person deserves the chance to discover a future that reflects their interests, strengths and ambitions.
“There are many routes to success, but understanding those routes, and knowing which questions to ask, can be a challenge.
“Future Pathways brings people and opportunities together so that young people and their families can explore their choices, build confidence and take their next steps with a clearer sense of direction.
“You do not need to have your future mapped out before you arrive: exploring the possibilities is what the event is all about.”
Admission is free, and visitors can reserve tickets through the Future Pathways website.
Event: Future Pathways 2026
Date: Saturday 7 November 2026
Time: 10am–4pm
Venue: University of Bedfordshire, Bedford Campus
Tickets and further information: https://www.future-pathways.live/
Advertising Feature with St Thomas More School
