A major initiative is being launched this week by the University of Essex to help make sure all students are ready for the world of work.

The Big e campaign aims to help students develop the skills employers are looking for and to respond to the national debate over student employability.

Students can find out more by speaking to Big e representatives on Square 3 from Monday 11 October to Wednesday 13 October.

Careers, the Research and Enterprise Office, Learning and Development and the Students’ Union are all working together on The Big e as improving employability is seen as such an important issue in the current economic climate.

Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching Andy Downton Said: 'The Big e is all about enriching the student experience and helping students get as much as possible from studying at Essex.

'We want students to take advantage of the opportunities being offered during their time at Essex to ensure they are in a position to pursue the career they want to after they complete their degree.'

Wherever and whenever students see the Big e symbol there will be an opportunity to:

• Experience the world of work
• Be enterprising and turn dreams into reality
• Enrich knowledge and skills
• Engage with their University

Events being planned as part of the Big e campaign include the Essex Apprentice, Enterprise workshops, careers fairs, the Essex Boot Camp and the Big e Awards. Other initiatives will be unveiled in the months ahead.

Students can find out more by exploring the Big e web pages at www.essex.ac.uk/bige which include all the essential dates for their diary.