Workers across Stoke-on-Trent are being offered the chance to boost their skills for free, thanks to a series of fully funded training courses from the University of Staffordshire.
Following the successful launch of the Stoke-on-Trent Higher Skills Accelerator last year, the university has secured further UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) backing through Stoke-on-Trent City Council. The funding will support another 12 months of short courses and masterclasses aimed at personal and career development.
Open to anyone in the city aged 18 and over who is in paid or unpaid employment, self-employed, on maternity or paternity leave, or taking part in a government-supported training programme, the initiative is designed to equip people with new skills they can take into the workplace.
Professor Martin Jones, Vice-Chancellor and chief executive at University of Staffordshire, said: “We are excited to be bringing even more training opportunities to support local employers and help to upskill the city’s workforce. Hundreds of workers have already benefited from the skills and knowledge gained through this initiative and we look forward to helping even more people in Stoke-on-Trent to develop themselves and progress in their chosen careers.”
Upcoming courses cover a wide range of topics, including social media and AI, data analysis, an introduction to Chat GPT, empowering neurodiverse talent, performing under pressure and the psychology of leadership and team dynamics.
Project manager Justin Pover added: “This is a rare opportunity to access high quality, engaging and interactive education, which is fully funded. With courses accommodating on average 20 people at a time, it is also a great chance to meet like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds.
“Whether you’re a business owner, employee, entrepreneur, student or a postgraduate, continuous professional development is an essential tool to maintain and enhance knowledge and skills, aid career progression, promote greater workforce engagement and build on learner confidence.”
Full details and how to apply are available on the University of Staffordshire website.
