Funded by the Department for Education and managed locally by Worcestershire County Council, Skills Bootcamps are part of the national Skills for Life initiative and play a key role in the Talent and Skills support offer for employers, co-promoted through the Worcestershire Growth Hub.

Skills Bootcamps offer free or heavily subsidised training tailored to employer needs across priority sectors such as construction, digital, engineering, and health and social care. These programmes offer a cost-effective, practical route to developing your workforce—whether to overcome recruitment challenges or retain talent through upskilling.

Councillor Alan Amos, Worcestershire County Council Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Business and Skills, said, “Any business serious about staying competitive should be using Skills Bootcamps. These courses aren’t tokenism, they’re not flat-pack, off-the-shelf, one-size fits all – they are specific, targeted, employer-led training programmes that deliver real results. If we want Worcestershire to grow stronger economically, something I am passionate about, then we must ensure our local workforce has the practical skills businesses actually need. Skills Bootcamps do exactly that – they give employers the edge while helping people step up into better jobs. It’s a win-win for growth, productivity, and long-term economic success.”

Wave 6 of the Skills Bootcamps programme welcomes new training providers including Adult Learning Worcestershire, Parenta, and RMF Training – joining a strong network of existing partners: GLP Training, Kidderminster College, TDM: The Development Manager, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Group Training Association, Workpays, and Herefordshire & Ludlow College.

Abigail Jones, Skills Bootcamps Manager at Worcestershire County Council, said, “It’s great news to welcome even more training providers into the Skills Bootcamps ‘family’, it means we can offer more training to individuals and to Worcestershire businesses. What makes Skills Bootcamps so effective is the way they’re built in direct response to employer demand. We work closely with providers and businesses to ensure every course is practical, purposeful, and designed to have an immediate impact in the workplace.”

As part of the wider Talent and Skills offer, Skills Bootcamps are co-promoted through the Worcestershire Growth Hub, the central point for business support in the county. Funded by central and local government, the Growth Hub supports businesses of all sizes and sectors and brings all the available support into one place.

Skills Bootcamps are already helping employers across Worcestershire to increase productivity, retain valued staff, and grow stronger teams, with the majority of costs covered by government funding.

To find out more about how Skills Bootcamps can help your business, or the wider Talent and Skills support for employers, please contact the Worcestershire Growth Hub team on the details below.

Call – 01905 677888 or Email – info@worcestershiregrowthhub.co.uk

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The list recognises UK organisations that are leading the way in delivering high-quality, inclusive, and impactful apprenticeship programmes. Compiled using independent data and robust scoring across key performance areas – including new apprentice starts, programme completion rates and diversity – the Sunday Times ranking offers a clear benchmark of excellence. Bishop Fleming’s ranking is proof of the sustained commitment of its People team, Apprentice Growth Coaches, and apprentices themselves.

Anna Averis, Partner and Chief People Officer for Bishop Fleming said:

“We’re extremely proud to be recognised in the Sunday Times Top 100, and to rank so highly alongside some of the UK’s biggest employers. This is a direct result of the commitment and care shown by our teams across the business to create a nurturing, progressive environment where our apprentices thrive. It speaks volumes about the strength of our people strategy and our belief in building talent from the ground up.”

The accolade comes at a time of continued growth for the firm’s apprenticeship programme, which will see 74 new apprentices join by September 2025 – marking a sixth consecutive year of growth in apprentice recruitment.

This success follows Bishop Fleming’s recent Outstanding Ofsted rating, making it one of only 18 Employer Providers – and only the second accountancy firm in the UK – to achieve top marks across all five key inspection areas. Its apprentices benefit from a tailored 100-day induction, structured ICAEW training, and long-term development pathways across the firm’s nine offices.

Managing Partner, Andrew Sandiford added:

“This recognition is a clear signal to prospective candidates, clients and peers that Bishop Fleming is serious about building for the future. Our apprentices bring energy, innovation and capability to every part of our business. As we continue to deliver on our Better Growth strategy, they play a crucial role in shaping the firm we want to become.”

Bishop Fleming is also a Certified Great Place to Work® and has been recognised nationally as a Best Workplace for Women. The firm continues to receive industry accolades, including multiple shortlistings for the 2025 Accounting Excellence Awards, reinforcing its reputation as one of the UK’s most progressive and high-performing accountancy firms.

Interested in joining our apprentice programme?

Explore our apprenticeship programmes for both graduate and school leavers and see what we have to offer on our careers site. Take a look at our vacancies here!

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The purpose of the qualification is to develop students as independent-thinking professionals who can meet the demands of employers and adapt to a constantly changing world.

The qualification is suitable for all types of industries and we have experienced delivery staff, providing a blended learning approach to accommodate flexible teaching and learning.

Support is also in place with mentoring services, workshops, and tutorials to help support you along your journey.

The qualification is recognised by Higher Education providers as meeting admissions requirements to many relevant business-related courses, for example BA (Hons) Leadership & Management for Business.

For more information and to apply click here: Leadership and Management HNC / HND Level 4 & Level 5 (HTQ) – HLNSC

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Whether you’re a large organisation or a small business, we can help:

• Construction Route – Support available for employers of all sizes
• Health T Level – Support available for employers of all sizes
• All other T Levels – Support available for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

If you’re new to industry placements, don’t worry — we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Do get in touch to find out how we can support you and your business.

Email our Head of Projects and Business Development, Julia Edmunds: j.edmunds@hlnsc.ac.uk

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The online programme is designed to educate on climate change and sustainability, its impact and the challenges it might present. It is particularly focused on raising awareness of how climate change-related issues or incidents might shape West Mercia Police’s operations. For example, a heatwave might affect rates of violent crime or extreme weather like flooding might lead to more traffic-related incidents.

Sustainability staff at West Mercia Police worked with an expert in sustainability in the University’s Business School, Principal Lecturer Dr Kay Emblen-Perry, to develop the content of the training course, while e-learning company Indegu made it a reality.

Titled Beyond the Beat: Climate Change & Environmental Challenges for West Mercia Police, it will form part of the training provisions for all police staff at West Mercia Police from 2025.

Several other forces have expressed an interest in the resource and, if it proves successful in the West Mercia force, those involved hope the course could be rolled out to other police forces across the country.

The training looks at how climate change is affecting the police through increases in incidents, specific crimes, extreme weather, and protest and activism on climate change related issues. It also explores the science behind climate change and carbon emissions, the wider impacts this has on the economy, society, and environment, and environmental legislation and how it can be applied.

The course also explores actions that West Mercia Police is taking to create a greener, more sustainable police force, as well as guidance on actions individuals can take to support reduction in climate change both at home and at work.

Principal Lecturer in Sustainable Management at the University of Worcester, Dr Emblen-Perry, said: “We hope the course will empower everyone within West Mercia Police to act on climate change. We have been able to combine our expertise in this area alongside those of West Mercia Police to create relevant training that we hope will make a difference to police officers across the West Mercia region dealing with the effects of climate change on a day-to-day basis and aid their understanding of the challenges that may arise from things like extreme weather events. We hope it will give them a greater understanding of what climate change is, and its wider impact on society and therefore also on policing and what they can do to contribute to the mitigation of climate change as individuals and as part of a wider policing community.”

Chris Speakman, Environment Manager Sustainability Manager at West Mercia Police, said: “The link between policing and climate change isn’t always immediately obvious. This training module, supported by the University of Worcester and Indegu, makes that connection very clear, highlighting how climate change affects policing operations, emergency response, crime, and ultimately the wellbeing of our communities, both now and in the future.”

Tracey Marlow-Jones, Director at Indegu Ltd, said: “We’re proud to have collaborated to bring ‘Beyond the Beat: Climate Change & Environmental Challenges for West Mercia Police’ to life. This innovative online programme will equip frontline officers with critical awareness. We are committed to creating impactful e-learning solutions that prepare organisations like West Mercia Police for the future.”

For information on courses at University of Worcester visit www.worcester.ac.uk or for application enquiries telephone 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk

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Enabled by funding from Malvern Hills, Wychavon, and Wyre Forest District Councils, and Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, the launch marks the first time BetaDen’s Incubate programme has been delivered from the north of the county, giving early-stage businesses access to high quality support and bespoke facilities, right in the heart of Kidderminster at the newly renovated Old Court.

From AI tools and creative platforms to sustainable innovation and sports technology, the diversity of businesses on Intake 5.0 reflects a regional tech scene that’s vibrant, ambitious, and growing fast.

The onboarding day also marked the announcement of BetaDen’s bespoke AI testbed ‘BLADE’ (BetaDen Localised AI Development & Evaluation), based at the Old Court – a local first. BLADE is a pioneering resource designed to give businesses a safe and supported environment to explore, develop, and validate artificial intelligence technologies. The testbed will be available for internal use within the programme soon, and the aim is for it to be open for public bookings in the coming months.

Donston Powell, External Affairs Director at BetaDen, commented: “Welcoming our first intake of innovators to the Old Court is a huge moment for BetaDen and the local ecosystem. 

“These businesses are tackling some of today’s biggest challenges with fresh ideas and bold thinking, and we’re proud to support them with the resources, mentorship, and network they need to grow.”

Councillor Dan Morehead, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Planning and the Green Agenda, said:

“We are very pleased and proud to see the first BetaDen cohort launched at the Old Court. It’s great that BetaDen is now established its new North Worcestershire home complete with purpose-built spaces and facilities to support cutting edge innovation and creativity.  We wish the business leaders on this new cohort every success and look forward to watching their businesses take root and grow.”

The programme offers a powerful mix of community, mentorship and cutting-edge infrastructure. On-site facilities at the Old Court include a 3D printer lab, a podcasting studio, and modern collaboration spaces.

Expressions of interest for Intake 6.0 of BetaDen Incubate, which will commence in October 2025, are now open. For further details, visit www.beta-den.com/incubate

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Solicitors Sufyaan Aslim, Lucy Palmer and Molly Wall have now been appointed into full-time positions at the law firm having completed their respective qualifications over the past two years.

Sufyaan joined mfg Solicitors as a paralegal in June 2021 and began his training contract in September 2023. Based in Kidderminster, he now begins a full-time role within the firm’s Corporate team, reporting to partner and head of department, Clare Lang.

Lucy meanwhile, joined the firm as paralegal in August 2022 and since then worked across a variety of the firm’s departments as part of her training contract. She will take up a position within the firm’s Residential Property team based in Bromsgrove, reporting to partner, Lucie Couchman.

Lastly, newly-qualified Molly joined the firm in January 2021 as a paralegal, and has now joined the firm’s high-profile Agriculture and Rural Affairs department which works with farmers and landowners across the country. Based in Worcester, she will report to partner and head of department, Alex Phillips.

 Tom Esler, partner at mfg Solicitors said: “There is no doubt that Sufyaan, Lucy and Molly all have bright futures ahead of them. During their two years of training with us, they have impressed at every turn, both internally and with our clients.”

“It’s a big moment for them to now be fully qualified solicitors and we look forward to them contributing to our success as a firm in the years to come.”

mfg Solicitors has offices in Birmingham, Kidderminster, Worcester, Bromsgrove, Ludlow and Telford.

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We understand the pressures our clients face. The challenge of retaining talent, developing future leaders and building high-performing teams, without overloading already stretched managers or budgets. Supporting people at the start or middle of their careers, to feel better prepared to lead, communicate and grow in fast-paced environments where time is short and expectations are high.

Our digital learning programmes simplify complex topics and skills like communication, performance and change with practical tools that make a difference from day one. It is flexible, accessible, and immediately actionable. No jargon. No fluff. Just results.

Whether you’re a business developing your next generation of leaders or an individual ready to take your next step, Make Strides offers digital learning programmes that meet you where you now and helps you reach your potential.

We support people across many sectors and our clients choose us because we make learning easy, impactful, and genuinely empowering.

At Make Strides, we don’t just teach skills. We help people take bold, confident steps forward. That’s learning that sets the pace – https://www.make-strides.com

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“Apprenticeships are high-quality, valued qualifications and businesses welcome the funding boost announced by Government.

“The BCC has long called for flexibility in the Growth and Skills Levy for employers to invest in pre-apprenticeship training to provide more pathways into technical and vocational careers.

“At a time when there are nearly 1 million NEET young people in the UK, employers will welcome the new Foundation Apprenticeships, with a financial incentive, in key skills shortage areas such as construction.

“However, defunding the majority of Level 7 apprenticeship opportunities is deeply disappointing. We recognise the funding challenges ministers are facing, but skills gaps at higher levels need to be addressed if the Government is to deliver its industrial strategy and growth missions.

“Employers stand ready to work with Skills England to make sure other types of training under the Growth and Skills Levy meet local needs.”

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NMITE (New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering) is hosting two events in June, both highlighting employment and training pathways into business and offering access to invaluable discussions on how evolving trends are shaping our work environments and the role each of us plays in the process.

“Following the success of getting all of our first graduates into work this year, these events bring this same perspective, which emphasises practical experience, problem-solving skills and close collaboration, and is one way we can give back to our local community;” comments James Newby, President and CEO of NMITE. “These two conferences in June will provide valuable skills and advice to those in and around the Hereford area looking to join to the modern workplace.”

NMITE’s Future of Work Conference, Thursday 5th June
NMITE invites local professionals, business owners, industry leaders and Hereford’s A-level and HE students to its second transformative Future of Work Conference on Thursday 5th June 2025. The world of work is continually changing. This free conference promises to be an educational event, bringing together thought leaders, industry experts, and innovative minds to explore how the modern workforce is evolving and discuss how modern technologies are shaping our future and why human skills have a paramount role to play.

Attendees will gain invaluable insights into how these factors are converging to redefine the future of work, what this means for us all, and particularly what it means for Herefordshire’s future.

Speakers at The Future of Work Conference include:
• George Savva, Managing Director of It Takes 7 Seconds
• Dr Naeema Pasha, Fellow at Henley Business School and Founder, Futura
• Cathryn Barnard, CEO of Working the Future
• Amy Stephenson, CEO of Human

Event details
Time & date: 9.30 for coffee and networking. The conference starts at 10.00, running until 15:00, Thursday June 5th.
Venue: NMITE, Skylon campus, Canary Drive Hereford HR2 6JT
Link to registration: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nmite-future-of-work-conference-2025-tickets-1227626637319?aff=erelexpmlt&_gl=1*1d60qh2*_up*MQ..*_ga*Mzg5MDc4MDI3LjE3NDc4Mzk1Njc.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NDc4Mzk1NjckbzEkZzAkdDE3NDc4Mzk1NjckajAkbDAkaDAkZFczLUlPUFU3aHcxY0J5U2NlLV9tSmFTakhXdjdDUVREelE.

NMITE’s Military-to-Business Showcase, Thursday 19th June
This year’s event is sponsored by North Tower Consulting, Proelium Law and The Coffee Cart.

NMITE’s “Military to Business Showcase” event aims to connect the military and veteran community with potential civilian employers and educational opportunities. Over the last six years, NMITE has been working closely with the Armed Forces community in Hereford and further afield. Having developed lifelong learning programmes and providing support through partners, NMITE has been able to access new avenues of employment and skill enhancement.

The event aims to signpost the support available to the veteran community, military leavers, spouses and children, showcase successful veteran owned businesses, provide pathways to education and skills and highlight the employment opportunities available to the military and veteran community within local businesses. Now in its sixth year, NMITE will be welcoming military personnel from other parts of the UK that are looking to plan for life outside the forces.

Speakers at the event include:
• Samantha Lewis, NMITE Director of People & Operations will be hosting the event.
• Adrian Powell from Proelium Law will discuss the complexities of importing and exporting, with a focus on dual-use goods, and best practices for navigating international trade in this essential session.
• Patricia Thomas and Sarah De Rohan will discuss the Kings Award for Enterprise and the newly launched ‘Business for Good Fund’ by the Herefordshire Community Fund.
• Ian Moore from AWE, will be exploring cutting edge innovations and strategic approaches in nuclear security technology, tackling the critical challenges of tomorrow.
• A former Foreman of Signals (Information Systems) and Late Entry Captain Telecommunications Officer (Technical), now Principal Cybersecurity Consultant at North Tower Consultancy in Cheltenham, will share practical insights on transitioning from a military career into the civilian cyber sector.

Event details
Time & date: 10.00-15:00, Thursday June 19th
Venue: NMITE, Skylon campus, Canary Drive Hereford HR2 6JT
Link to registration: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nmite-military-to-business-showcase-2025-tickets-1247264946029?aff=erelexpmlt&_gl=1*248lm7*_up*MQ..*_ga*Mzg5MDc4MDI3LjE3NDc4Mzk1Njc.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NDc4Mzk1NjckbzEkZzAkdDE3NDc4Mzk1NjckajAkbDAkaDAkZFczLUlPUFU3aHcxY0J5U2NlLV9tSmFTakhXdjdDUVREelE.

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