VISITORS to this year's Orsett Show (Saturday, 5 September) are invited to explore the exciting Youth Zone Marquee, where local schools, colleges, training providers, employers, youth organisations and community groups will come together to showcase the wide range of opportunities available to young people across Thurrock and the surrounding area.

The marquee will provide a unique opportunity for families, children and young people to meet representatives from local educational establishments, learn about further and higher education pathways, apprenticeships, careers, training opportunities and extracurricular activities, while connecting with organisations dedicated to supporting young people's development, wellbeing and future aspirations.

Alongside local education providers, visitors will also have the opportunity to meet the team behind OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway (Thurrock Youth Zone), a state-of-the-art youth facility currently under construction at Anchor Fields in Tilbury and due to open in 2027.

Part of the national OnSide network, the new Youth Zone will provide affordable, year-round opportunities for young people aged 8 to 18, and up to 25 for those with additional needs.

Facilities will include an indoor climbing wall, sports hall, gym, music and recording studio, performing arts and boxing spaces, a training kitchen, sensory room, arts and crafts area, 3G kick pitch, and an enterprise and employability suite.

At the Orsett Show, the Youth Zone team will be offering hands-on taster activities, giving visitors a flavour of what will be available when the facility opens. It will also be an opportunity to meet members of the Young People's Development Group, who have played a key role in shaping the project and will be sharing their vision for the future of youth provision in Thurrock.

The Youth Zone Marquee promises to be a vibrant, interactive and inspiring destination, offering something for children, young people, parents, educators and employers alike.

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Orsett Show education co-ordinator Sally Khawaja said: "The Youth Zone at the Orsett Show highlights the incredible opportunities available to young people across our community. Whether you're looking for education, training, volunteering, careers advice, wellbeing support or simply new activities to enjoy, there will be something for everyone.

"We encourage families, schools, employers and young people to visit the Youth Zone Marquee, meet the organisations involved and help shape an exciting future for the next generation.

"Come along, get involved and discover the educational, career, wellbeing and recreational opportunities available to young people across Thurrock and beyond."