Free Skills Courses for Adults to Upskill or Retrain
If you have been a regular reader of our latest blogs you will probably be aware that there is a skills shortage in the UK. Both the pandemic and Brexit are to blame; but the Government are certainly doing their bit to get people into better paid jobs. As well as improving the level of practical and vocational education through the Lifetime Skills Guarantee, they are also providing Skills Bootcamp training programmes. These are designed to allow adults to build up sector-specific skills and fast-track to an interview with a local employer.
What Sectors Are Included?
These further measures cover a range of digital and technical training in a range of industries. From solar energy installation and sustainable agriculture to coding and software development. The idea is that more adults will have the opportunity to access the skills and training they need in order to get a job in their desired field.
To begin with, these free skills courses are being introduced slowly across the country in order to develop strong bonds between local employer groups, colleges and other providers. Not only will the training help to reduce the levels of unemployment; but it is important that it meets the needs of local communities. Filling the skills gaps in key sectors of the economy.
Educating The Younger Generation
We have recently written about how the younger generation aren’t always educated on the range of pathways open to them following completion of their GCSEs or A-Levels. As part of this new skills accelerator programme, young people will be informed about vocational education too. Schools and colleges will be responsible for making sure that every young person is aware of the options open to them; including apprenticeships and technical education opportunities.
Skills Bootcamps
The new skills bootcamp that are being developed provide training of up to 16 weeks. They allow adults to upskill or retain sector-specific skills. With many people being made redundant following the pandemic, this new training gives people the chance to change careers entirely. With the fast-track to interview this means more and more people will go straight into a paid role as well; which will significantly reduce the levels of unemployment.
Since April, those without a full education (up to A Levels) have had access to over 400 free courses. This was to help them gain in-demand skills. It really is great to see the Government making positive steps to get more people employed and reduce the skills shortage in the UK.
If you are considering a change in career, have you considered becoming an Assessor? Why not give the team at Brooks & Kirk a call to find out more about this career path. Our team are always on hand to help – call 01205 805155.