Enhancing your work and employment skills is essential for thriving in today's dynamic job market. It involves a commitment to continuous learning, whether through formal education, on-the-job training, or self-directed efforts such as online courses and workshops.
Developing a diverse skill set not only makes individuals more adaptable to changing industry but also increases your competitiveness and opens new career opportunities.
Effective communication, problem-solving abilities, technical proficiency, and teamwork are among some top skills that employers highly value. Staying up to date with industry trends and technologies can provide a significant edge, ensuring that your skills remain relevant and in demand.
Explore the adult skills provision from Bury Council’s partners to expand your work and employment skills.
Bury Adult Learning Services
Adult and Community Learning (AEB): This program offered by Bury Adult Learning Service equips adults with the skills necessary for entering and sustaining employment, securing an apprenticeship or traineeship, or pursuing further education opportunities (for those aged 19 and over).
Multiply Courses: This program provides skills training for Greater Manchester residents aged 19 and over who do not have a Level 2 qualification in Maths or English. The courses are designed to help individuals develop essential life skills in these areas, including managing living costs, enhancing health at home, and improving everyday numeracy. Topics covered include healthy living, numeracy for employment, practical math for daily activities like measuring, and cooking skills focused on healthy eating and budgeting.
About Bury Adult Learning
Bury Adult Learning is a community-focused education provider based in Bury, offering a wide range of courses aimed at helping adults improve their skills, gain qualifications, and enhance employability. The centre provides opportunities for personal development, including vocational training, basic skills like literacy and numeracy, and leisure courses aimed at individuals from all backgrounds with flexible style of learning.
Further Education for young people
Bury College and University Centre
Further Education for young people at Bury College offers a diverse range of programs designed to equip students with the skills and qualifications needed for higher education or entering the workforce. The college provides A-level courses, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships and university courses across various subjects, catering to different interests and career aspirations.
Bury College focuses on creating a supportive learning environment, with experienced staff and modern facilities to enhance the educational experience. Students benefit from personalised guidance, ensuring they make informed decisions about their future pathways. The college is committed to helping young people achieve their full potential, preparing them for success in their chosen fields.
Holy Cross College and University Centre in Bury
Further Education for young people at Holy Cross College and University Centre offers a broad array of academic and vocational courses designed to prepare students for higher education or the workforce. The college provides a strong emphasis on A-levels, alongside a range of BTEC qualifications, ensuring students can choose the path that best suits their strengths and ambitions.
Holy Cross is known for its high academic standards and supportive environment, with dedicated staff who are committed to helping students succeed. The college also offers enrichment programs to enhance students' personal development and career readiness. With excellent facilities and a focus on individual growth, Holy Cross College aims to equip young people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to achieve their goals.
Skills Boot Camps by GMCA Commissioned Providers
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority provides Skills Bootcamps in partnership with various training providers to help individuals gain in-demand skills for employment across a range of sectors.
These bootcamps offer flexible training lasting up to 16 weeks for those aged 19 years and over, with pathways leading to guaranteed interviews or job offers. Training is tailored to meet the needs of both learners and employers, covering industries such as digital, construction, and green skills. The initiative aims to support the region’s economic growth by enhancing the skills of its workforce, making participants more competitive in the job market.
Find current Skills Boot Camps opportunities.
ESOL Courses in Bury
ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes equip residents with the essential language skills needed to communicate effectively in English, which is crucial in integration into the community and participation in daily life.
These classes help individuals build confidence in ability to speak, read, and write in English, enabling people to access a broader range of opportunities, such as education, employment, and social services. ESOL classes play a role in fostering inclusivity and supporting personal and professional advancement.
Find ESOL courses available in Bury.
Flexible Support Fund DPS2 Sector Work Academy Programmes
The Flexible Support Fund is designed to enhance employment opportunities by procuring work-focused skills activities specifically tailored for customers of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) at Job Centre Plus.
Through the Dynamic Purchasing System 2, the fund assists the delivery of targeted training and support programs that address the specific needs of various customer groups, including those who are unemployed or at risk of long-term unemployment. This programme integrates training, work experience, and a guaranteed job interview to help individuals develop the skills required by employers.
To find out more about the programme speak to your local Job Centre Plus.
Essential Skills for Life & Progression into Inclusive Employment (UKSPF)
The WEA (Workers' Educational Association) launched community grants program in Greater Manchester to support local initiatives and projects. This program aims to offer funding for community groups, organisations, and activities that contribute to social cohesion and educational development in the region.
The grants are designed to help with various types of projects, including those that focus on improving community engagement, enhancing skills, and providing educational opportunities.
To find out more and apply for the grants visit The WEA (Workers' Educational Association) website.
For more information or questions about Bury’s employment and health support offer please email us on investin@bury.gov.uk or visit Bury Works work and skills page to find other resources, such as employment programmes.