In today’s fast-changing world, access to skills training is more vital than ever. For individuals seeking new opportunities and businesses looking to bridge skills gaps, the Moving Up Project, launched in 2024 by Weston College and North Somerset Council, is making a real impact.

Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as part of the government’s £2.6 billion levelling-up agenda, Moving Up is designed to empower individuals and businesses through three targeted strands:

1. Youth Moving Up – Helping 16-24-year-olds overcome barriers to education or employment with one-on-one Key Worker support.
2. Not in Work Moving Up – Supporting unemployed adults over 19 through tailored guidance, group sessions, and structured interventions.
3. Moving Up in Work – Upskilling existing employees through accredited and unaccredited training, strengthening both career prospects and business capabilities.

Training That Makes a Difference

Through Moving Up in Work, Weston College has worked closely with SME employers across all sectors to deliver targeted training, including:

• Digital skills
• Administration
• Understanding Autism & Neurodiversity
• Hidden Disabilities Awareness
• Mental Health First Aid Training & Refreshers
• Manual Handling & Moving of People
• Food Hygiene
• Team Building & Positive Culture Development

Recognising high demand for mental health and first aid training, the programme has facilitated six cohorts of Mental Health First Aid England training (80 individuals trained) and six cohorts of Emergency First Aid at Work (65 individuals trained).

Tangible Impact

Since its launch, the Moving Up Project has supported over 240 individuals and 50 businesses in North Somerset across sectors such as childcare, healthcare, hospitality, construction, and business services. By addressing training needs, businesses have gained stronger, more skilled teams, while individuals have broken through barriers to achieve career success.

Overall, the project has been a resounding success, benefiting both individuals, businesses, and the wider community overall outputs successes is at a healthy 111% and outcomes at 117% against the original targets.

Investing in People, Building the Future

The Moving Up Project is more than just training—it’s about transformation. It empowers individuals with the tools to succeed, boosts confidence, and fosters economic resilience. By bridging skills gaps and supporting career development, Weston College and North Somerset Council are helping individuals and businesses thrive.

Demand for the services offered by Moving Up remains strong, with steady enrolment numbers under our similar provision model, Solutions. Our team are committed to promoting engagement, personalised progression, and positive development activities.

If you or your business could benefit from training and upskilling, now is the time to take action. Together, we can continue transforming lives—one opportunity at a time. Please email employers@weston.ac.uk to access support.

Louise Greene

Business Growth and Employer Partnership Manager