Council Unveils Learning Works Programme

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Free training for job hunters in Putney & Wandsworth

Wandsworth Council has unveiled a range of free education and training sessions to give local people a cutting edge in the jobs market.

The new Learning Works programme offers classes and workshops themed around careers advice and job hunting.

There are sessions designed for people who have never applied for a job before as well as advanced classes for experienced workers looking to make a career move. You can also learn key English and maths skills, how to succeed in interviews, how to search for jobs online and how to create a top quality CV.

The events take place in community buildings all over the borough so everyone has a chance to take part. Many of the sessions are between June 14th and 21st as part of national Adult Learners Week, but some classes will continue until August 3.

The programme, which is organised by the council’s Lifelong Learning team, also includes fun taster sessions like hair braiding, fitness in the park and dance sessions taught by the Royal Academy of Dance.

Another highlight will be the Learning Works Fun Day hosted by local charity STORM. The family friendly event includes box fit and soca aerobics sessions, jewellery making, t-shirt printing, a bouncy castle, music, a free barbecue and more. It takes place from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday 21 June outside 253 Battersea Park Road, SW11 4LF.

Council education spokesman Cllr Kathy Tracey said: "These events are all about unlocking potential and helping local people get over any barriers to the jobs market. Sometimes learning a few basic skills and techniques can give you a real edge. Have a look at the Learning Works programme and sign up for a course today!

“The Wandsworth economy is growing and it’s a great time to start a career or make a bold move into a new job. There are starter roles, apprenticeships, traineeships and a vast array of skilled job vacancies available right now.”

Council leader Ravi Govindia said: “A key role for this council is to support and encourage people to reach their goals and get on in life. If you need training, motivation or help finding live vacancies we can offer you a hand. As our jobs market improves we will ensure local residents have every opportunity to share in that success. The growth we are now seeing will help us create an even stronger Wandsworth.”

You can see a list of all the events taking place under the Learning Works initiative online. The programme is supported by the Skills Funding Agency.

Unemployed Wandsworth residents can also get in touch with the council’s Work Match team who are dedicated to helping out-of-work people on a road to training or employment. More than 100 people have benefitted so far.

To find out about Work Match and a range of employment support services visit www.wandsworth.gov.uk/jobzone

Employment support is part of the council’s vision for an even stronger Wandsworth where local people have more opportunities and first rate services. Find out more at www.wandsworth.gov.uk/strongerwandsworth

June 5, 2014