What are Skills Bootcamps?

Skills Bootcamps are intensive training programmes designed to equip your employees with the skills they need - and that you need them to have.

These new Bootcamp courses offer an excellent opportunity for workforce development, helping your team gain expertise in new areas or advance their current skills.

Why choose Skills Bootcamps?

Skills Bootcamps enable your organisation to develop a highly skilled workforce tailored to meet industry demands. With flexible courses in digital, technical, green skills, and more, these bootcamps can be integrated seamlessly into your employees' schedules.

All courses are developed with significant employer input to ensure they meet the latest industry standards. We also prioritise diversity, aiming for at least 50% female participation in our cohorts.

Types of Skills Bootcamps

Skills Bootcamps are available in various fields, including:

• Construction
• Digital
• Creative (film, TV and gaming)
• Leadership & Management
• Green skills
• Catering and hospitality
• Education and early life

Bootcamps can be conducted at colleges, through various training providers, or online. They typically take up to 16 weeks to complete and are designed to be flexible, allowing your employees to balance their studies with their professional and personal commitments.

Businesses get up to 90% off the cost of the training

While Skills Bootcamps are free for individuals, employers looking to invest in their workforce through these programmes are required to contribute:

• 10% of the costs (for SMEs)
• 30% of the costs (for large companies)

Entry requirements for Skills Bootcamps

To enrol your employees in a Skills Bootcamp, they must be 19 or older. Most programmes do not require prior knowledge of the subject, only proficiency in English and a strong motivation to learn.

Find a local Bootcamp course

AI and User Centred Design Bootcamp

The AI and User Centred Design Bootcamp is designed to provide essential skills and knowledge in the field of digital design and artificial intelligence. The training covers:

• Foundations of AI and user centred design
• Programming for AI
• Machine learning workflows
• Human-centred design for AI
• Ethical AI and responsible innovation
• Project design studio and certification preparation

Register your interest here for the AI and User Centred Design Bootcamp delivered by Opportunities Workshop.

Cyber Security Practices Bootcamp

Unlock the world of digital defence with a Level 3 Certificate in Cyber Security Practices, which will provide you with a chance to develop knowledge and skills relating to cyber security practices with the view to seeking employment or proceeding to further study in this area. The training covers:

• Identifying cyber threats
• Protecting data
• Securing networks
• Practical knowledge for career readiness
• Hands-on exercises and real-world scenarios

Register your interest here for the Cyber Security Practices Bootcamp delivered by Career Tree.

Plant Operator Training Bootcamp

This free, flexible training programme is designed to equip aspiring and existing Plant Operators with the practical skills and certifications needed to thrive in the industry. Delivered at state-of-the-art Operator Skills Hubs in partnership with HS2 construction partners EKFB and BBV.

The Plant Operator Skills Bootcamp is ideal for individuals looking to upskill or progress in their career in construction plant operations. Those seeking to expand their machine expertise or improve employability are encouraged to apply. The training covers:

• CPCS training on additional machine categories
• GPS and digital machine control systems
• Enhanced “site ready” training
• Health & safety and environmental awareness
• Sustainable and responsible construction practices
• Sector-specific skills based on local employer demand
• Personal development and career progression support
• Pathways to apprenticeships and long-term employment

Register your interest here for the Plant Operator Training Bootcamp delivered by Flannery Plant Hire.

Early Years Educators Bootcamp

A free, fully-funded 16-week Level 3 programme designed to equip aspiring Early Years Educators with the essential knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to thrive in early years settings. Delivered through a blended model of live virtual classrooms and in-person workshops.

This Skills Bootcamp is ideal for individuals looking to begin or progress in a career in childcare. Learners benefit from optional work placements, face-to-face employability workshops, and a fast-track interview process with local nurseries for apprenticeship opportunities. The training covers:

• Introduction to the role of the Early Years Educator
• Holistic child development
• Safeguarding and welfare requirements
• Health, wellbeing and safety
• FAA Level 3 Paediatric First Aid (in-person)
• Awareness of anaphylaxis
• Employability Skills Workshops (CV writing, interview techniques, mock interviews, vetting checks)

Register your interest here for the Skills Bootcamp for Early Years Educators, delivered by Educate2gether.

More Bootcamps will be added soon! Check back regularly to explore the latest available bootcamps and find the perfect training for your employees.

Browse for Bootcamp courses across the country

Search the national Bootcamp database for courses throughout the country.

After the Skills Bootcamp has been completed

Upon completing a Skills Bootcamp:

• Businesses must demonstrate that existing employees that complete a Bootcamp have been offered an interview for a new role within their organisation - or provide evidence that they have been given new responsibilities within their existing role.
• Self-employed people taking part in a Bootcamp must be able to demonstrate that they have increased their business after acquiring new skills.

Learn more about Skills Bootcamps

Contact our Workforce Skills Team to learn more about how your business can benefit from Skills Bootcamps. Email [email protected] or call 01494 927130.

Visit Buckinghamshire Council's Skills Bootcamps webpage to learn more.