Skills Bootcamps are part of the Government's Lifetime Skills Guarantee, helping everyone gain skills for life, funded through the Department of Education and are free (to the learner). Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils have secured funding to support 600 learners through Skills Bootcamps from April 2024 to March 2025. Driven by employers' needs within our region, the aim is to bridge existing skills gaps and address recruitment needs by providing flexible, intensive training programmes.
The Bootcamps last from 60 hours to 16 weeks and are designed to fit around learners' commitments. They provide sector-specific skills at Levels 2-5 (GCSE to HND equivalent) to help individuals gain employment, get promoted, or take on more work if self-employed.
Am I eligible?
Anyone 19+ who is employed, self-employed, unemployed or returning to work after a break is eligible. Some are also open to soon-to-be released prisoners.
If you are unemployed, you will be offered a guaranteed interview with an employer at the end of your programme.
How can employers get involved?
For employers, completing learners can be hired for free with no recruitment costs. Let us know if you are recruiting, and we can help build a Skills Bootcamp to fill those vacancies.
For employers looking to upskills their current workforce, there is a 30% contribution. Small to medium sized businesses (SMEs) pay 10%.
What to do next
To get involved or ask questions, contact SkillsBootCamp@suffolk.gov.uk
