Hampshire County Council has secured a further £7 million from the Department for Education (DfE) to extend its successful Skills Bootcamps programme for another 12 months – nearly doubling last year’s funding and opening up more opportunities for local people and businesses.
Now entering its third year, the funded programme offers fast-track training to Hampshire residents aged 19 and over, helping both jobseekers and those already in work to gain in-demand skills that meet the needs of local employers.
What Are Skills Bootcamps?
Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible courses lasting up to 16 weeks, designed to give people the skills employers are actively recruiting for. They include a minimum of 60 hours of training and, for unemployed learners, come with a guaranteed job interview at the end of the course.
Areas covered include:
- AI and Data Analytics
- Leadership and Management
- B2B Sales
- Teaching Assistant Training
- Digital and Green Skills, such as heat pump installation and EV maintenance
No prior experience is needed for many of the courses, and learning can take place online, in the classroom or on the job – making it accessible to people juggling work or family commitments.
Local Impact and Economic Boost
Over the past year, more than 1,000 learners in Hampshire enrolled in courses covering project management, digital marketing, hospitality, engineering, and health and social care.
Councillor Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council, said:
“The Bootcamps are a brilliant way to help local people – whether already in employment or seeking work – gain skills for life, while meeting the needs of industries and businesses across Hampshire.
“This extra £7 million funding will further develop the local workforce, increasing Hampshire’s productivity by helping businesses fill specific vacancies.
“Creating opportunities for residents to access training and learn the skills needed by industry is just one way we’re working with partners to boost the economy and enable Hampshire to prosper.”
How to Get Involved
- Anyone aged 19+ living in Hampshire can apply
- Courses are free and accessible regardless of employment status
- Flexible learning structure suits different lifestyles
- Unemployed participants receive a guaranteed job interview
Residents and businesses can find out more and apply here: hants.gov.uk/business/skillsbootcamp
If you’re unsure where to start, an online Skills Assessment tool is available via the National Careers Service to help match your strengths to suitable career paths.