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Careers and Jobs Fair: Accessibility Guide

  • Careers Fair Accessibility Guide

    • About this Guide

    Find out about Newcastle University Careers Service's Careers and Jobs Fair before you attend, including the accessibility support available.

    This information will help you know what to expect and plan ahead.

    We want everyone to feel welcome and supported when attending our fairs.

    You'll find information here about:

    • what to expect at the event
    • the venues and their accessibility features
    • preparing for the fair and building confidence before you attend
    • requesting support

    You'll also find other useful resources to help you make the most of your visit.

    If you're looking for a quick answer, you can also check our Frequently Asked Questions (below).

    You can read as much or as little of the information on this page as you need.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Find quick answers to some frequently asked questions about the fair.

    Click the downward arrow to find the answer to the question. 

    What is the Fair for?

    The careers and jobs fair is a chance to meet employers. There is no pressure to apply for a role on the day.     

    You can:

    • find out about part-time jobs, internships, placements and graduate roles
    • ask questions
    • explore options
    • learn about different organisations
    Do I have to prepare before I attend?

    No. You can attend without preparing beforehand.

    However, some students find it helpful to look at the list of employers attending and plan who they would like to speak to. We have tips below on what you might say.

    Some students write down a few questions in advance. However, it is okay to attend just to look around and learn more about the opportunities available.

    If you do want to prepare, we have some advice below to help.

    What if I don't know what to say?

    It's okay if you don't know what to say. It's very common!

    Employers understand that many students feel nervous about starting conversations. Often they will greet you first, or start a conversation.

    You could introduce yourself. You could ask about their organisation. You could ask what opportunities they offer students and graduates.

    It is also okay to listen, take information away, and come back later if you need time to think.

    We have more suggestions below to help you if you don't know what to say.

    Will the Fair be busy?

    Careers fairs can be busy, especially during peak times. There may be crowds at some points. There might also be background noise, bright lighting, and several conversations happening at once.

    If busy environments are challenging for you, you may find it helpful to attend at our quiet time. This is at the first half hour of the fair (10.30 - 11:00am).

    You don’t need to book for this.

    You can also take regular breaks, and use our quiet space in the Ford Room in Hadrian Building. 

    See below for more details about our quiet space and what to expect at each venue.

    Can I attend the Fair without speaking to employers? 

    Yes. You are welcome to look around and get familiar with the event.

    You can collect information without speaking to anyone. You don't have to talk to anyone if you prefer not to.

    How long do I need to stay at the Fair? 

    There is no set amount of time you need to stay at the Fair. 

    Some students stay for the whole event, and visit every stand and venue. Others visit for a short time and only visit one or two.

    You can leave whenever you want and return later if you want to.  If you leave and return we might ask to scan your student ID again. 

    Can I use headphones or sensory aids?

    Yes. You are welcome to use headphones, ear defenders, fidget tools, or other sensory aids.

    We want you to feel comfortable during the event. 

    Is it okay to take breaks?

    Yes. Taking breaks is fine. If you start to feel tired or overwhelmed, you can leave. You don't need to tell us.

    You could also use the quiet space (The Ford Room in the Hadrian Building), get some fresh air, or return later.

    When you return, you may be asked to scan your student ID again before entering the event.

    You can find out more about our quiet space (the Ford Room) below.

    Can someone come with me?

    Yes. You are welcome to attend with a friend, support worker, family member, or any other person.

    We recommend they bring ID. This could be for example, a student card, driving licence or passport. 

    What if I need extra support on the day?

    If you think you might need extra support on the day, please contact us before the event.

    We will discuss the support you need and do our best to help you access the event comfortably. 

    You can also speak to a member of staff at the event for help on the day. They will be easy to spot as they will be wearing coloured bibs. 

    We also have blue lanyards you can borrow at each venue. These will indicate to our staff that you might need extra support. 

    What should I wear?

    Wear clothing that feels comfortable and appropriate for you. There is no dress code for attending the fair.

    Many students wear everyday clothes, like the ones they wear for university. Others choose more formal clothing.  

    Can I bring a list of questions or notes?

    Yes. Some students find it useful to bring notes, questions, on a notepad or phone.

    Employers are aware that some students use notes. They will not mind if you refer to them during a conversation. 

    We have some ideas below of things you might like to ask. 

    More about what to expect at the Careers and Jobs Fair

    The Careers and Jobs Fair is Newcastle University's largest careers event. It brings together employers offering:

    • Graduate jobs
    • Internships
    • Placements
    • Part-time work

    You can use the fair to explore career options and learn about different organisations.

    There is no expectation to apply for jobs or speak to employers. You can take part in whatever way feels comfortable for you.

    Venues

    There are three venues for our Fair, plus our quiet space if you need a break. Each venue provides the opportunity to meet employers in a supportive, low-pressure environment.

    You can find more details on each Fair venue below.

    Employer Stands

    Employers will have stands where they share information about their organisation and opportunities.

    Stands may include:

    • Information and leaflets
    • Banners
    • TV screens
    • Examples of products or services
    • Free items such as pens, tote bags, notebooks, or sweets

    Different employers attend on different days. You can check the event listing on MyCareer to see who will be there.

    You can choose how to participate

    There is no right or wrong way to attend. You might:

    • look around the venue
    • visit employer stands
    • speak to employers
    • collect information to read later
    • take breaks whenever you need to
    • attend with a friend or supporter
    • just observe without speaking to anyone

    You are free to engage as much or as little as you want.

    Booking

    Booking is not required.

    If it helps you prepare, you can register your interest on the event listing on MyCareer. This is optional.

    You are welcome to bring a friend, family member, or support person. They do not need to book in advance, although we recommend they bring ID. (Examples include student ID, driving licence, work ID, or passport). 

    Quiet half hour

    Each venue has a quiet half hour, starting at 10.30am.

    During the first 30 minutes, the event is less busy. This can be a good opportunity to:

    • familiarise yourself with the venue
    • explore employer stands
    • speak with employers before larger crowds arrive

    During this time, you can expect:

    • fewer students
    • shorter queues
    • more space to move around
    • a quieter atmosphere

    If you prefer a less crowded environment, we recommend attending during the quiet half hour.

    What to expect when you arrive

    1. Arrive at one of our venues. Staff and signs will help direct you.
    2. Join the check-in queue if there is one.
    3. Show your student card at the welcome desk. If you forget it, staff can look you up.
    4. Any non-student guest attending with you will be asked to sign in.
    5. Enter the event space and explore.

    Once inside, you can:

    • look around first
    • visit any stands that interest you
    • take information or freebies
    • take breaks whenever you need to
    • leave at any time

    You do not have to:

    • speak to every employer
    • speak to anyone at all
    • stay for the whole event
    • ask lots of questions
    • prepare a perfect introduction
    • apply for jobs on the day

    It is completely fine to visit, collect information, and leave when you are ready.

    Accessibility

    Accessibility support is available at each venue. (See Venue specific information (below) for accessibility information for each venue).

    At every venue you can:

    • borrow a blue lanyard from each venue reception. These will indicate to staff that you might need extra support at the Fair. 
    • borrow a pronouns badge (available at each venue reception)
    • ask staff for support
    • attend with a supporter
    • use headphones, ear defenders, or other sensory aids

    Careers Service staff will be wearing coloured bibs to indicate who they are. 

    What the environment will be like

    During busier periods, in each venue you can expect:

    • lots of people moving around
    • multiple conversations happening at once
    • background noise from people talking
    • overhead lighting
    • employer stands with banners, screens, and promotional materials

    The fair is normally noisier and busiest in all venues between 11am and 2pm. 

    If you find busy environments challenging, you may wish to attend during the quiet half hour (10.30 - 11.00am). You can also take breaks or visit only a small number of stands.

    There is no pressure to interact, and you can take part in whatever way works best for you.

    Things may change on the day

    Employers, room layouts, or noise levels may be slightly different on the day due to unforeseen circumstances.

    If you have any questions,  please speak to a member of staff.

    Staff wear coloured bibs indicating that they are staff, and they are happy to help.

    Venue specific information

    We have three venues for the fair. These are: The Boiler House; The Venue, Newcastle University Students' Union, and the Lindisfarne Room in Hadrian Building

    We also have a designated quiet space which is the Ford Room in Hadrian Building.

    You can find venue specific information on these below.

    The Boiler House

    Find out more about the Boiler House below.

    Location 

    The Boiler House is in the centre of Newcastle University's campus, opposite the Students' Union building. The Jobs and Careers Fair will take place in the main hall, with employer stands located throughout the venue. 

    When you arrive

    • The venue is a large indoor hall.
    • The reception desk is on the right as you enter.
    • Please check in by scanning your Student ID.
    • Event staff and signage will be available to help you find your way.

    Sensory information

    • The event takes place indoors in a busy environment.
    • The venue uses bright overhead lighting.
    • There may be background noise from conversations and people moving around.
    • The first 30 minutes are intended to be quieter.
    • After this time, the venue may become busier and noisier.
    • The Boiler House is smaller than some of our other venues and may feel crowded during busy periods.

    Taking a break 

    Seating is available outside the main event space if you would like a quieter area to take a break.

    You can also use the quiet space in the Ford Room in Hadrian Building. Further details are provided below. 

    Venue accessibility

    • All employer stands are on the ground floor.
    • Most of the venue is on one level.
    • Accessible and ambulant accessible toilets are available on the ground floor.
    • Additional toilets are available upstairs.
    • The entrance doors will be open and are wide enough for wheelchair users.

     

    The Venue, Newcastle University Student's Union

    Find out information about The Venue, Newcastle University Students' Union.

    Location

    Newcastle University Students' Union is in the centre of campus, opposite Northern Stage and close to Haymarket Metro station. The Jobs and Careers Fair will take place in The Venue on Level -2 (the basement).

    Employer stands will be located throughout the space. 

    When you arrive

    • The venue is a large open-plan room with employer stands.
    • A reception desk will be available for check-in.
    • If you use the stairs, the reception desk will be at the bottom of the stairs.
    • If you use the lift, the reception desk will be on your right when you leave the lift.
    • Signage and event staff will be available to help you find your way.

    LinkedIn photo area

    • The LinkedIn photo area will be on the right-hand side of the room as you enter.
    • A photographer will be present.
    • There may be a queue of people waiting for their photograph.

    Sensory information

    • The first 30 minutes will be quieter.
    • The venue may become busier as more people arrive.
    • There may be background noise from conversations, movement around the room and employer stands.
    • Noise levels may increase during busy periods.
    • There is no natural daylight in the venue.
    • Lighting is provided by overhead lights at a medium brightness level.
    • Some noise may also be heard from the nearby Luther's Bar.

    Taking a break 

    You can move around the venue at your own pace and take a break whenever you need to. There is no expectation that you speak to every employer or stay for a set amount of time. You may speak to one employer, several employers, or simply collect information.

    If you need a quieter environment, you can use the quiet space in the Ford Room,  Hadrian Building. Further details are provided below.

    Venue accessibility

    • Step-free access is available throughout the building.
    • To reach The Venue, take the lift to Level -2.
    • Accessible routes and lift access are available.
    • The doors to The Venue will be open and wheelchair accessible.
    • Automatic doors are available in several areas of the building.
    • Accessible toilets are available within the Students' Union building.
    • The accessible toilet on the same level as The Venue may have limited space for wheelchair users.
    • A gender-neutral toilet is available on the same floor.

    For more detailed accessibility information, including photographs, measurements and access routes, please see the AccessAble guide for Newcastle University Students' Union.

    Lindisfarne Room, Hadrian Building

    Find out more about the Lindisfarne Room, Hadrian Building, below. 

     Location

    About this venue

    The Lindisfarne Room is a large event space in Newcastle University's Hadrian Building, located behind the Students' Union and close to the Boiler House.

    The Jobs and Careers Fair will take place in the Lindisfarne Room, with employer stands located throughout the space.

    When you arrive

    • The venue is a large open-plan room with employer stands.
    • Event staff and signage will be available to help you find your way.
    • You can take time to look around and get familiar with the space before speaking to employers.

    Sensory information

    • The event takes place in a large open indoor space.
    • The room is brightly lit.
    • There may be background noise from conversations and people moving around the room.
    • The venue may become busier and noisier as more people arrive.
    • The first 30 minutes are intended to be quieter. After this time, noise levels and visitor numbers may increase.

    Taking a break

    You can move around the event at your own pace and take breaks whenever you need to.

    There is no expectation that you speak to every employer or stay for a set amount of time. You may speak to employers, explore the stands, collect information, or simply look around.

    If you need a quieter environment, you can use the quiet space in the Ford Room in Hadrian Building. Further details are provided below.

    Venue accessibility

    • Step-free access is available throughout the building.
    • Lift access is available to the Lindisfarne Room.
    • The doors to the Lindisfarne Room are wheelchair accessible.
    • Accessible toilets are available within the building.
    • The Lindisfarne Room is equipped with an induction loop

     

    Quiet space, the Ford Room, Hadrian Building

    Find out about our quiet space below.

    Location 

    If you need a break from the Fair, you can use our quiet space. This is in the Ford Room in Hadrian Building.

    The room is smaller, quieter and calmer than the main venues, and you can use it at any time during the fair.

    You do not need to ask permission or explain why you want to use the space.

    The room is not staffed all the time, but a member of staff will check on it regularly

    What is available in the quiet space (the Ford Room)?

    • A calm space away from the event.
    • Seating for rest and relaxation.
    • Fidget toys and sensory items to borrow
    • Mindful colouring sheets and coloured pencils available to use
    • Drinking water.
    • Natural light.
    • An accessible toilet nearby

    Using the quiet space

    • Stay for as little or as long as you need.
    • You do not need to explain why you are using the room.
    • Return to the Fair whenever you feel ready.

    Finding the quiet space

    • Follow the signs to the quiet space (Ford Room) in the Hadrian Building.
    • If you need directions, or help to find the room, ask a member of staff. Staff will be wearing blue or orange vests or Careers Service T-shirts or hoodies.

     

    Preparing for the Fair

    You do not have to prepare before attending. However, a little preparation can help you feel more confident and get more from the event.

    Before you attend

    You could:

    • Look at the venue information on this page.
    • Check which organisations are attending via the event information on MyCareer. 
    • Bring something to make notes with (e.g. notepad or phone)
    • Plan an outfit that makes you feel comfortable
    • Think of a few questions you might like to ask employers.

    During the fair

    Employers are there to meet students and answer questions.

    You can take part in a way that feels comfortable for you. There is no expectation to speak to employers, but doing so can help you learn more about opportunities.

    Talking to employers

    • Employers expect students to approach them.
    • You do not need to know exactly what career you want.
    • Take your time and take breaks if needed.
    • Focus on employers that interest you.
    • Ask for clarification if something is unclear.
    • You do not need to make a perfect impression. The aim is to learn and explore.

    Starting a conversation

    You could introduce yourself, explain what you study, and say what you would like to find out.

    Example:
    "Hi, I'm studying History. I'd like to learn more about opportunities with your organisation."

    You could also ask:

    • Can you tell me about your organisation?
    • What roles are available?
    • What skills do you look for?
    • What placement or graduate opportunities do you offer?
    • What advice would you give to applicants?

    If speaking feels difficult

    You could:

    • Smile, wave, or say hello.
    • Read information on the stand.
    • Point to information you would like to know more about.
    • Show a question written on your phone or on paper.
    • Use short answers.
    • Ask a friend or supporter to help.
    • Take information away to read later.

    You do not need to have all the answers. The fair is an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and explore your options.

    After the fair

    You could:

    • Review your notes.
    • Identify employers or opportunities that interest you.
    • Save useful contact details.
    • Connect with employers on LinkedIn if you wish.
    • Use what you learned to support future applications.

    Requesting additional support

    Before the Fair

    We want everyone to feel welcome and supported.

    Contact us before the event if you would like:

    • information about the venues
    • help finding your way around the fair
    • support speaking with employers
    • any other information or support to attend the fair

    We will do our best to help.

    On the day

    If you need support during the event, please speak to a member of staff.

    Staff will be wearing blue or orange coloured vests, or Careers Service T Shirts or hoodies. 

    We can help you:

    • find an employer or stand
    • with questions about the event
    • locate the quiet space
    • access the support you need during the fair

    Please just ask.

    We look forward to meeting you at the Newcastle University Careers and Jobs Fair. If you need any more information, please contact us.