YTKO has secured funding for Wave 5 of its Skills Bootcamps across Devon and Cornwall, a crucial initiative to equip individuals with the skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic job market. As part of the government’s Lifetime Skills Guarantee, these bootcamps offer high-quality, short-term training courses that are free for learners and tailored to meet local employers’ needs.
Addressing the Skills Gap
The Skills Bootcamps come at a critical time as the UK recovers from the pandemic and navigates labour market shifts. Industries across Devon and Cornwall face significant skills shortages. These bootcamps provide residents the opportunity to upskill or reskill in high-demand areas, enhancing employability and supporting local economic growth.
The Vision Behind the Skills Bootcamps
The bootcamps focus on key sectors, including digital, construction, engineering, and green technologies—areas vital to Devon and Cornwall’s economic success. By targeting these high-growth sectors, the bootcamps help individuals secure better job opportunities while supporting the region’s broader economic goals.
YTKO is committed to inclusivity, ensuring these bootcamps are accessible to a diverse range of participants, including the unemployed, those seeking career advancement, or a change. The aim is to provide each participant with the tools needed to succeed, regardless of their starting point. YTKO is providing Skills Bootcamps via our Building Growth SW brand, which was developed to provide skills and training across the South West.
What the Skills Bootcamps Offer
The Skills Bootcamps are intensive, practical, and directly relevant to local employers’ needs. Each bootcamp lasts 8 to 10 weeks, blending online and in-person training to accommodate participants’ schedules.
Key features include:
- Industry-Relevant Training: Developed with local employers and industry experts, the bootcamps ensure participants gain in-demand skills, making them more attractive to employers.
- Flexible Learning Options: A mix of online and face-to-face sessions allows learners to balance training with other commitments.
- Expert Instruction: Experienced professionals bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
- Guaranteed Interviews: Graduates seeking new positions are guaranteed a job interview with local employers.
The following Skills Bootcamps are offered through Building Growth SW:
- Leadership & Management (Devon, Cornwall & West of England)
- Organisational Sustainability (West of England only)
- Digital Business Skills (Devon & Cornwall only)
- Future of Construction (Devon & Cornwall only)
- Digital Marketing (Devon, Cornwall & Solent)
Click here to find out more details on each.
Impact on the Local Economy
The Skills Bootcamps are expected to significantly impact the local economy by addressing skills gaps in key sectors. For employers, the bootcamps provide a pipeline of skilled workers ready to contribute immediately. Partnering with YTKO allows employers to influence training programmes to meet their specific needs.
For participants, the bootcamps offer a life-changing opportunity to gain new skills, improve employability, and secure well-paying jobs. This benefits individuals and contributes to the region’s prosperity as more people enter the workforce.
Looking Ahead
YTKO is committed to refining and expanding the Skills Bootcamps to meet Devon and Cornwall’s evolving needs. Plans are underway to introduce additional bootcamps in other high-demand areas, ensuring the programme remains relevant and responsive to participants and employers.
Lee Hughes, Deputy CEO of YTKO, stated, “The Skills Bootcamps are a game-changer for Devon and Cornwall. We are addressing critical skills shortages by providing high-quality training linked directly to employment opportunities. These bootcamps empower individuals to take control of their careers while supporting local businesses to grow and thrive.”
The launch of the Skills Bootcamps across Devon and Cornwall marks a significant milestone in building a skilled, competitive, and resilient workforce.
