South Bank Colleges works closely with employers, Jobcentre Plus and local partners to help adults gain the skills, confidence and experience they need to move forward.

Through programmes such as Sector-based Work Academy Programmes, employer partnership training and Jobcentre Plus referral routes, learners can access practical courses designed around real employment opportunities. These programmes support people who are looking to return to work, change direction, build confidence, or gain new skills for a specific sector.

The stories below show how learners have used these opportunities to develop their skills, improve their prospects and take positive next steps.

Real skills for real opportunities

These programmes are designed to connect learning with the world of work. South Bank Colleges works with employers and referral partners to create training that supports local recruitment needs while helping learners prepare for the next stage in their journey.

Courses may focus on areas such as digital skills, employability, customer service, health and care, construction, hospitality, or other sectors where employers are looking for trained and motivated people.

Learners benefit from supportive teaching, practical tasks and guidance that helps them build both technical ability and workplace confidence.

Working with Jobcentre Plus and local partners

Many learners join these programmes through Jobcentre Plus or partner referrals. This joined-up approach helps ensure that training is targeted, relevant and connected to real opportunities.

For learners, it can mean gaining new confidence, developing CV-friendly skills and preparing for interviews or further training. For employers, it helps create a pool of better-prepared candidates with the skills needed for the workplace.

Learner stories

Each story highlights the experience of a learner who has taken part in one of these programmes. Their journeys show the difference that short, focused and supportive training can make.

From building digital confidence to preparing for work in new sectors, these stories reflect the college’s commitment to helping adults take practical steps towards employment, progression and personal growth.

Antony’s story: building digital skills for work
Antony joined a digital skills programme through the SWAP route, developing his confidence with computers, the internet and cyber security awareness. His story shows how practical training can help learners prepare for employment and feel more confident using technology.

George’s story: gaining essential digital skills for the NHS
George took part in an Entry Level NHS Essential Digital Skills course, improving his IT confidence and gaining useful workplace skills. His experience highlights how partnership training can support learners who want to progress in health and care settings.

Interested in working with South Bank Colleges?

South Bank Colleges welcomes opportunities to work with employers, Jobcentre Plus teams and partner organisations to create training that supports local people and local workforce needs.

To find out more about partnership training opportunities, please contact South Bank Colleges.