More than 100 learners from Business Studies, Travel and Tourism, and T Level courses took part, joining 19 representatives from 17 local businesses across sectors including photography, cyber security, business brokering, and marketing.
Building real-world networking skills
The event was organised by Jonathan Leach from Derbyshire Business Networking (part of Indigo Drum Communications) and supported by Liz Bates, Work Experience and Progression Coordinator at DCG, alongside tutors from each curriculum area.
Jonathan opened the session with a practical introduction to the importance of networking, explaining:
- how quickly first impressions are formed
- why clear communication matters
- what employers expect from confident young professionals
Students then took part in a live speed‑networking exercise, developing key skills such as:
- speaking clearly and confidently
- active listening
- asking purposeful questions
- building professional relationships
- overcoming shyness and fear of rejection
- reading body language
- understanding different perspectives
- managing first impressions
Positive feedback from employers
Jonathan Leach praised the students for their attitude and engagement:
“Many people feel nervous when it comes to business networking, but Derby College students were fantastic. They really embraced the opportunity and showed great confidence.”
Mark Waghorn, Business Development Manager at Mapmatic, added:
“The live networking exercise saw local business representatives take part in five minute rotations with students, observing communication skills, confidence, and engagement.
“I have never had to interview such a friendly and intelligent group of young people. They really put me on the spot and tested my own interview skills.
“It was a privilege to help them bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world professional life.”
Debbie Porter, Managing Director of Destination Digital Marketing, said:
“It was fantastic to see the students getting involved and really pushing themselves outside their comfort zones.
“Events like this are so valuable in helping young people build confidence and develop the skills they will need in the workplace.”
Businesses not only gave their time freely but also benefited from meeting future talent and contributing to their development.
Connecting students with employers
Liz Bates highlighted the importance of employer engagement:
“Events like this are incredibly important in helping students build confidence and develop the skills they need for the workplace.
“Giving them the opportunity to engage directly with employers allows them to practise communication in a supportive setting and better understand what businesses are looking for.
“We are very grateful to the businesses that gave their time to support our students. Not only does it benefit the learners, but it also gives employers the chance to connect with future talent, share their experience, and play a key role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.”
Thank you to participating businesses
Derby College Group would like to thank all the businesses involved, including:
The Cyber Resilience Centre for the East Midlands, Lee Business Advisory, Me and Dee, Jak Photography, Embark Federation, Mapmatic, Jaxmore Food and Drink Photography, Destination Digital Marketing, AV IT Media, Pektron, Foxxweb Design, Enterprise 4 Change, 58i Small Business Hub, Your Vision Coaching, Apollo Business Broking, Derek Cheshire, Charles Burrell, and Rumko Marketing.
Developing future business talent at Derby College Group
DCG offers a wide range of Business Studies, Leadership, and Management courses designed to equip students with real‑world skills and industry knowledge.
These include vocational courses, T Levels, and apprenticeships that focus on:
- communication
- project management
- marketing
- professional practice
These programmes prepare students for employment, higher education, and successful future careers.
