Free event to help residents take the next step into employment

Residents looking to gain new skills, retrain for a new career, or move closer to employment are invited to attend a free Skills Bootcamps Information Event at Northampton Guildhall this September.

Taking place on Thursday 10 September, the event will showcase a range of fully funded Skills Bootcamp courses available across West Northamptonshire, helping people develop industry-relevant skills, gain employer-recognised qualifications and access new employment opportunities. Attendees can choose to attend one of two sessions, either from 11am to 12.30pm or 1pm to 2.30pm.

Attendees will be able to find out more about training opportunities in sectors including construction, logistics and warehousing, hospitality, and other growing industries. Skills Bootcamps are designed to equip participants with in-demand skills, boost confidence and employability, and support progression into sustainable employment. Learners who complete a Skills Bootcamp are guaranteed an interview with an employer, giving them a direct route to opportunities in their chosen sector.

The event will begin with a series of short presentations from training providers, offering an overview of available courses, eligibility criteria, and the support on offer for learners. Following the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to meet providers during a marketplace-style session, where they can ask questions, explore their options and sign up for suitable courses on the day.

Two sessions are available:

• 11am to 12.30pm
• 1pm to 2.30pm

Places are FREE and can be booked via Eventbrite.

Cllr Kamala Guliyeva, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC, said: “Skills Bootcamps provide a fantastic opportunity for residents to gain valuable qualifications and practical experience that can open the door to new careers and better job prospects.

“It is particularly encouraging to hear first-hand how these courses are helping people build confidence, develop new skills and take the next step towards achieving their career goals.

“Whether you are looking to retrain, build your confidence, or take the next step in your employment journey, this event is a great chance to explore the support available and speak directly with training providers about the opportunities on offer.”

The Skills Bootcamps cover a wide range of industries and sectors, including Construction, Transport and Logistics, Life Sciences, Hospitality and Tourism. They are designed to help people develop in-demand skills, gain nationally recognised qualifications, and progress into employment, career advancement, or further training opportunities.

A Skills Bootcamp could be for you if you are:

• Aged 19 or over
• Looking for work
• Employed and looking to develop new skills (employer contributions apply: 10% for SMEs and 30% for large organisations)
• Self-employed

Recent feedback from learners who have completed Skills Bootcamps in Northampton highlights the positive impact of the programme:

“My tutor has been really good. Dan is very knowledgeable and is an excellent instructor. He's been very patient and I feel like I wouldn't achieve half of what I have without him. So much credit to him and his efforts. Keep up the great work, Dan. You are making a difference to people's lives in a positive way.”

“The best part of the course was the practical training and how clearly everything was explained. Dan made sure everyone understood both the NVQ work and the forklift theory and practical elements before moving on. It really helped build my confidence.”

“We treat each other well, like family.”

Residents who are unable to attend the event can still explore the full range of available opportunities and find out more about Skills Bootcamps by visiting the Council's Skills Bootcamps webpage.