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Somerset and Dorset residents benefit from free training to boost earnings

Adults in Somerset and Dorset have already gained new skills and jobs in tech and digital sectors after benefiting from free government-funded Skills Bootcamps.

Skills Bootcamps, managed by Somerset and Dorset County Councils, are courses ranging from 3 to 16 weeks, developed alongside industry partners to offer skills in in-demand sectors, such as welding, programming, data analytics, hybrid vehicle repair, IT Readiness and Cyber Readiness.

The courses offer a guaranteed interview with a local employer upon completion and help to support people into finding jobs.

Peter Baugh, a previous learner on a welding Skills Bootcamp at Bridgwater & Taunton College, started working with Matravers Engineering after completing his course. Peter said: “The teaching was of a really high standard and the lecturers explained everything really well; they were always on hand to help in the practical sessions. 

“I applied for work at Matravers Engineering, one of the top engineering firms in the South West. Matravers were impressed with my practical ability, and I was offered a role as a semi-skilled Welder Fabricator at Matravers Engineering.”

Troy Wheeler, a previous learner at an IT Readiness Skills Bootcamp with Bluescreen IT, landed his dream job at an IT support company. Troy said: “The IT Readiness bootcamp prepared me with the skills needed to work in an IT role where I spend everyday working with clients on their IT.

“I feel really lucky to have a job where I wake up every morning and look forward to going to work, and am really grateful to Train4Tomorrow for the opportunity to develop IT Readiness skills.”

Somerset County Councillor Val Keitch, Executive Lead Member with responsibility for Prosperity, said: “The Skills Bootcamps are a wonderful free resource that we are proud to be involved with. They provide training with the primary aim of helping people into a new job, progress in their current job or become self-employed. 

“Local colleges and training providers deliver the skills that local employers are looking for, as the Bootcamps are aligned to local employment opportunities.

“Connecting these employers with locally trained people is one of the best ways we can ensure the people in our region get the jobs they deserve; and ensure our area’s businesses thrive with the support of a strong and qualified workforce.”

If you would like to develop your skills then Skills Bootcamps in Somerset and Dorset  delivered by Bridgwater & Taunton College, Weymouth College and Bluescreen IT, are currently open for enrolment.

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 or employed. Further opportunities will be available in 2023.

If you are an employer and would like to connect with Skills Bootcamp graduates to fill vacancies, please contact us. You can also develop the skills of your existing employees through a bespoke training offer. SMEs are required to contribute 10% towards the course costs, and large employers 30%. We are currently planning for delivery in 2023/24 and if you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact SkillsBootcamps@somerset.gov.uk.

Find out more about Skills Bootcamps in Somerset and Dorset.