Train4Tomorrow, run by Devon County Council as part of the Government’s Skills For Life programme, has received £3.3 million from the Department for Work and Pensions this year to provide free training for more than 800 adults in Devon. Skills Bootcamps aim to help people to upskill, change careers or explore new job opportunities.
Last year around 30% of people taking part in Skills Bootcamps in Devon were aged 50 and over.
Mary, aged 70, recently completed a Supported Employment Practitioner Skills Bootcamp. She feels everyone can benefit from the programme’s courses, regardless of their age.
Having not taken part in a training course since 2007, Mary admits she was naturally nervous, but she received excellent support from course tutor Deborah Carne at Learn Devon.
Mary’s employer, Eat That Frog Community Interest Company (CIC), which specialises in post-16 education and adult training and education in South Devon, supported her to take part in the training.
Mary said: “Since I started the Skills Bootcamp I’ve learned so much and I’m so pleased that I did it. It’s boosted my confidence and the people you meet while doing the course are absolutely fabulous.
"Don’t let age be a barrier. We never stop learning. The longer I stay in work, the younger I feel. The course is free to the learner, which is great. The support you receive from the tutor is excellent – it made me feel comfortable and valued. I’d recommend it to anybody no matter what age.
Councillor Simon Clist, Cabinet Member for Assets and Resources, said: “The Train4Tomorrow Skills Bootcamps have something to offer all adults looking to get back into work, progress in their current job or re-train for a new career. More courses will be added over the next few months ready to start in January, so keep an eye out in case there’s something that appeal to you. Hats off to Mary. She has an incredibly positive attitude and it’s great to see that she has benefited so much from the Skills Bootcamp she completed.”
Train4Tomorrow courses last from two to 16 weeks, giving adults aged 19+ the opportunity to build in-demand skills covering a range of sectors including construction, digital, hospitality, project management, and early years and education. The programme is designed and delivered with input from employers to make sure that training supports specific, local skills needs.
For anyone looking to get back into employment, or start a new career, an interview offer with an employer is guaranteed on completion of the Skills Bootcamp.
To find out more visit: www.train4tomorrow.org.uk
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