SKILLS Bootcamps have been expanded by Essex County Council, offering the chance to gain in-demand skills, retrain for a new career and progress at work.
Backed by £4.1 million from the Department for Education, Skills Bootcamps are now being delivered by more than 15 colleges and independent training providers across Essex.
It is part of the Essex Year of Opportunity, a £1.33 million campaign by Essex County Council which creates projects and partnerships to remove barriers to essential skills for residents of all ages.
Adding to existing Skills Bootcamps in sectors like childcare and construction, new subjects include:
AI for screen production
Software development
Device repair
Data analysis
Manufacturing
Protective security
Employers can benefit from heavily subsidised training by enrolling existing staff onto Skills Bootcamps, with SMEs asked to contribute just 10% of the cost and larger employers 30%.
Skills Bootcamps are flexible with online and face-to-face options to suit different learning styles and schedules.
The bootcamps are ideal for jobseekers, career changers and those in work looking to upskill.
Councillor Tony Ball, Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability at Essex County Council, said: “With more subjects than ever before, Skills Bootcamps are now even more accessible to residents across Essex.
“Whether you’re looking to change careers, return to work or grow your business, there’s never been a better time to get involved.
“The discounts available to businesses enrolling their staff make it a cost-effective way to upskill quickly, with courses lasting up to 16 weeks.
“Bridging the skills gap will not only enrich the lives of individuals – it will help create a thriving economy where businesses can feel confident about hiring skilled workers. I look forward to seeing more projects and partnerships from the Essex Year of Opportunity over the coming months.”
