Adults in Somerset and Dorset are eligible to take part in free training worth up to £3,200 to boost employability this spring.
Skills Bootcamps, delivered by Somerset Council and Dorset LEP, are courses ranging from 3 to 16 weeks, developed alongside industry partners to offer skills in in-demand sectors.
The courses offer a guaranteed interview with a local employer upon completion, and help learners to boost their employability for the jobs of the future.
Skills Bootcamps in Somerset and Dorset are currently open for enrolment, delivered by partners BIT Group, Weymouth College and Bridgwater & Taunton College, with courses including IT and Cyber Readiness, welding, component removal and replacement in electric and hybrid vehicles, data analytics and databases.
The training is free to individuals looking to advance their skills, and is open to adults aged 19 or over, who are unemployed, self-employed, employed full or part-time or returning to work.
Carly Munroe recently took part in a welding Skills Bootcamp with Bridgwater & Taunton College. Carly said: “The welding course was really beneficial and gave me valuable skills, which have helped me with my aspiration to be a pipe welder. If you’re considering doing the training, I say go for it, as the trainers are excellent and you will gain a good understanding of the area you want to work in.”
Councillor Val Keitch, Somerset Council’s Executive Lead Member for Prosperity, said: “Skills Bootcamps are a fantastic opportunity for adults to gain new qualifications or upskill for free. I would urge anyone eligible to take up this opportunity, which we are proud to be delivering.
“Connecting local employers with local, qualified people is one of the primary ways we can ensure Somerset’s economy thrives and that the people of our region are able to get the jobs they deserve.”
Employers can also develop the skills of their existing employees through the training. SMEs contribute 10% of the course costs, and large employers contribute 30% towards training costs.
Find out more about Skills Bootcamps: Skills Bootcamps
