EXCITED children were fascinated to discover lots of fascinating jobs.

More than 160 pupils, including many from Winsford schools, attended a unique Careers Palace to learn and be inspired about the world of work.

Passion for Learning, a charitable organisation whose volunteers runs a network of after school enrichment clubs, organised the event.

More than 20 businesses and public sector organisations showcased many different careers and industries where the youngsters could work when they grow up.

Passion for Learning development manager Viv Couche said: "With a host of activities from making slime to designing credit cards, flying drones to testing the waterproof qualities of rainwear, learning first aid with paramedics to seed planting, the children got to experience the world of work in a highly interactive, fun and engaging way."

Northwich Guardian:

Children were excited to discover a range of fascinating jobs they had never heard of

Companies taking part included Essar, Advanced Medical Solutions, Virgin Money, Lush and Regatta.

David Tillotson, from the event’s main sponsor Greif Packaging Charitable Trust, said: "The trust’s purpose is to support education and projects that help children to achieve their full potential.

"The Careers Palace is a prime example of how we can inspire local children to become immersed in the world of work and to achieve their life-goals."

Willow Wood Primary, Oak View Academy, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary, Grange Community Primary in Winsford and Barnton Community Primary in Northwich were among the 21 Cheshire primary schools at the event at Cheshire View in Christleton in Chester.

Diane Clark, managing director for Passion for Learning said: "Seeing the excitement and enthusiasm of the children, I have no doubt that we have inspired their future ambitions and aspirations in a number of different ways.

"It is with the sponsorship and support from Greif, Chester Municipal Charities and Sanctuary Housing, that we were able to host this incredible event and the activities which will follow it.

"Their funding made it possible for us to provide the venue, transport and catering for the nearly 300 people involved in the day.

"We are also incredibly grateful to the police, fire service and ambulance service who brought to life these careers in such an accessible way."

Northwich Guardian:

Children enjoyed spending time with the therapy dogs who lapped up the attention and affection they were given

Richard Holly, practice manager at Vet4Pets, said: "It was a fantastic day and I genuinely think that the children were really inspired by the whole thing.

"I must admit that I hadn't heard of Passion for Learning before but I think that you do super work and it's great to witness a group of people working so hard to improve the lives of others."

Celebrity baker The Bake King Ben Cullen was a special guest.

Channel 4 filmed the unveiling of his incredible rocket cake which was commissioned for the Careers Palace.

Children enjoyed the experience of being filmed and can't wait to see the release of the extreme cakes episode on TV.

Northwich Guardian:

Children were inspired and excited about their future careers

Award-winning fashion designer Matthew O’Brien, recently voted Britain’s top designer, took time out from running his business to spend time with the children designing outfits and talking about careers in fashion.

Diane Clark added: "Our charity recognises the need to excite and inspire children about their future careers and we believe the earlier we begin talking to children about this, the better.

"Many of the children we work with have few, if any, future ambitions, partly because they do not know about the range of study and work opportunities available to them.

"We are delighted to create a bridge between the businesses and employers in our local communities with their future generations of employees.

"We expect that many children attending the event will leave feeling inspired to pursue a career they may never otherwise have considered.

"We hope that this event will be the first of many to help children to aim high for a job they are passionate about. I extend my heartfelt thanks to every single participant involved who helped to make the event the success it was.’

For more information about Passion for Learning call 0151 356 8717 or email diane.clark@passion-for-learning.com.