ADULTS in East Sussex can access new skills training courses thanks to a £2.6m government funding boost.
East Sussex County Council has secured funding from the Department for Education to launch the Skills Bootcamp programme which aims to help people develop the sector specific and professional skills that employers need.
Available for the first time in East Sussex, the scheme offers flexible vocational courses of up to 16 weeks for self-employed people and employees, as well as for those who are unemployed.
The courses, which range from level 2 (GCSE) to level 5 (foundation degree level), are open to anyone who is 19 years of age or over and living or working in the county.
Worth from £3,500 to £5,500, the courses are free of charge for unemployed people. Employers only need to make a small contribution to the course cost for their staff, an investment that will pay dividends in increased efficiency and skills.
For the majority of businesses in East Sussex who are termed as small and medium sized enterprises this will be a 10 per cent contribution and for larger employers with over 250 employees the contribution required will be 30 per cent.
Opportunities to train are available in the following sectors: construction and green construction skills, engineering and manufacturing, digital skills, teaching assistants and early years education, the land-based sector including viticulture, business and administration, hospitality, and health and social care.
Councillor Penny di Cara, lead member for economy at East Sussex County Council, said: “I am delighted that Skills Bootcamps are coming to East Sussex.
“The Skills Bootcamp courses offer a range of training which will support local businesses and residents, by upskilling our local workforce, moving people from unemployment into work, and addressing key local skills gaps.”
On completion of a Skills Bootcamp course those who are unemployed or looking to change career are guaranteed a job interview with an employer for a current vacancy.
The role available could be a full time or part time position, an apprenticeship, or training that may help people move into self-employment and secure contracts as a result.
For those already in work, the new skills gained may help employees access promotion opportunities or gain a new or additional area of responsibility in their current role.
Councillor di Cara continued: “Skills Bootcamps provide a great opportunity for local people to train in a new industry or to progress in their current career.
“They’re flexible, so you can fit learning around your family or other commitments, and they are a great way to access expensive, professional training free of charge, or for a small contribution from your employer.
“I would encourage anyone aged 19 or over who wants to gain new technical and professional skills to find out more about the opportunities available through this exciting new programme.”
For more information email skillsbootcamps@eastsussex.gov.uk or visit www.careerseastsussex.co.uk/information/adults/skills-bootcamps