London’s employment landscape is under pressure. Across the UK, youth unemployment remains stubbornly high, with
hundreds of thousands of 16 to 24 year olds currently out of work. The number of young people not in education,
employment or training has climbed close to one million nationally, creating urgent questions about access,
opportunity and connection.
This weekend, 6 and 7 March, the London Job Show arrives at Westfield Stratford City with a simple solution to a
growing problem: put employers and jobseekers in the same room.
Hosted in one of the capital’s busiest retail destinations, the event runs from 11am to 5pm on both days and is
completely free to attend. It brings together leading employers, training providers and education institutions offering
live vacancies, apprenticeships, graduate opportunities and career advice.
While online applications have become the norm, many candidates report sending dozens, sometimes hundreds, of CVs
without response. Employers, meanwhile, are struggling to identify motivated talent in a saturated digital marketplace.
The London Job Show aims to cut through that noise by restoring something increasingly rare in recruitment:
conversation.
A major highlight of the event is a significant presence from the Royal Air Force, which will be promoting its wide range
of career pathways and apprenticeship programmes. The RAF will be engaging directly with young people interested in
technical, engineering, logistics, intelligence, and aviation roles, as well as those looking to build transferable skills
through structured training. Representatives will be on hand to discuss entry routes, qualifications and long-term
progression.
However, the London Job Show is far broader than one organisation. It reflects the diversity of London’s economy and
the range of opportunities available across sectors.
These organisations represent industries ranging from aviation and public services to housing, retail, engineering,
healthcare, technology and higher education. Many are actively recruiting for immediate starts, apprenticeships and
development programmes.
The Stratford location is also significant. East London is one of the capital’s youngest and fastest growing areas, yet
many local residents face barriers to employment, from limited networks to lack of access to decision makers. By
positioning the show inside Westfield Stratford City, the event creates an accessible and welcoming environment where
opportunity meets footfall.
Organisers emphasise that face to face recruitment improves outcomes on both sides. Candidates can demonstrate
personality, motivation and communication skills that do not always translate on paper. Employers can assess cultural
fit and potential more effectively, often conducting informal interviews on the spot.
At a time when national conversations are focused on productivity, skills shortages and economic growth, events like
the London Job Show play a practical role in bridging the gap between ambition and employment.
