The Airport is funding the ‘Take Off Programme’, starting this month, which will provide mentoring and skills development for people such as those in education, retired employees looking to return to work or individuals that have been away from the workplace due to family or caring commitments.
There will be a particular focus to support individuals from underrepresented groups and those who have employability barriers, such as mental health issues or lack of confidence, living in and around Weston-super-Mare and South Bristol.
Funded through Bristol Airport’s Achieve Fund, Weston College will work with younger unemployed people who aren’t in training or studying, while Partners in Bristol – part of City of Bristol College – will focus on supporting older people out of employment. The scheme will include a series of employability workshops, programmes and initiatives.
Cherie Marchant, People Director at Bristol Airport, said: “Through our unique position working with a variety of business partners at the Airport, we are able to provide work experience and help develop skills required that will offer support to those who will have barriers to entering the workplace.
“Once they have completed training and developed their skills, we are hopeful that local employment opportunities will then be offered, including roles at the Airport.”
The Achieve Fund was developed through a partnership with North Somerset Council as part of a Section 106 planning commitment, relating to development and growth at the Airport, to deliver employment and skills interventions and a programme of activities.
Weston College, which already works with the Airport on various initiatives, including apprenticeship training, welcomed the introduction of the Take Off Programme.
Pat Jones, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College said: “We are delighted to partner with Bristol Airport on the Take Off Programme. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing inclusive education and training opportunities, ensuring individuals from all backgrounds can develop the skills needed to thrive in the workforce.”
Rob Hazelton, Managing Director of Partners, added: “”At Partners in Bristol, we are proud to support individuals in gaining the skills and confidence they need to re-enter the workforce. Through our strong position as a leading provider of adult skills in the region, we are pleased to be working in partnership with the Airport and its supply chain to offer bespoke programmes that provide work experience at the Airport. This hands-on experience is followed by individualised vocational skills courses, equipping learners with the tools they need to secure sustainable employment that benefits both them and the wider region.”
Cllr Catherine Gibbons, Deputy Leader of North Somerset Council and Executive Member for Children’s Services, Families, and Lifelong Learning said: “The Take Off Programme will make a real difference to those in our communities facing challenges entering the workforce, whether it’s due to a gap in employment, confidence issues, or a lack of access to training. It’s fantastic to see Bristol Airport working in partnership with our local college to create opportunities that are both inclusive and impactful.”
