Skills given a boost in EM3 region, via Hampshire County Council led Skills Bootcamps

New fast-tracked training programmes, designed to provide the workforce with in-demand skills, are to be offered in our region, providing a fantastic opportunity for both employers and individuals.

Hampshire County Council has worked in partnership with Surrey County Council, with support from the EM3 Local Enterprise Partnership, to secure £1.8 million Government funding for employment skills training for adults aged 19 and over through a programme of up to 16-week ‘Skills Bootcamp’ courses.

Skills Bootcamp training will boost both Hampshire and Surrey’s economy by helping businesses fill specific skills shortage vacancies and so increase productivity. Courses will be offered across a range of key skills needs, including cyber security, digital marketing, retrofit, heat pumps and electric vehicles.

The courses are free to individuals, offering flexibility, with learning planned to fit around family and other commitments allowing people in different circumstances to gain the skills employers are looking for.

Employers can also take advantage of the Bootcamps on offer – both by using them as a low-cost opportunity to upskill existing staff or as a way to gain access to a talent pool ready to fill future skills needs.

Launching the new courses, Councillor Rob Humby, Leader of Hampshire County Council said:

“Hampshire is home to many well-established leading businesses and industries including those in emerging industries like advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, digital and tech as well as and health and life sciences. we are extremely pleased to have secured this funding to commission training providers who can deliver Skills Bootcamps in the county. The training will be developed in partnership with local employers, ensuring a joined-up approach to addressing skills gaps and job vacancies across Hampshire. 

“This is a fantastic opportunity to support the development of a workforce equipped with the skills to meet the needs of industry and business – both now and in the future. It will give working adults confidence in their ability to advance their careers and create a more secure future for themselves and their families, which is vital to enhancing economic and social prosperity for all.”

More information and guidance is available online at Skills Bootcamps | Business and economy | Hampshire County Council (hants.gov.uk) including on how to find a course and how to apply.

The current funding will cover training opportunities until the end of March 2024.