The Growth Works with Skills programme, funded by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA), is transforming the lives of over 160 residents by equipping them with new skills which they will need to succeed in today’s job market.

The scheme offers personalised learning and development pathways, empowering individuals to gain meaningful employment via internships, while also helping local businesses find and nurture the talent they need to thrive.

Since the launch of its internship pilot in June 2024, the programme has been supporting over 160 residents, including successfully placing 17 residents into paid internships.  The 13 week programme offers residents the chance to gain hands-on experience in industries they are passionate about. One such success story is Catherine McFadzean, a 29-year-old resident of Cambridge. After completing a 13-week paid internship at Fitness Rush in Old Hurst, Huntingdon, Catherine reflected on the life-changing impact it had on her:

"I was the first intern to be enrolled in the pilot program, and this experience has completely transformed my life," she said. "After years of struggling with addiction issues, I’ve gained the confidence and direction to pursue a career in the fitness industry. I have been provided with not only a unique insight into the industry, learnt new skills, but I have also increased my confidence within the workplace and now been offered the chance to secure full time employment."

 

 

Dr Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, expressed his support for the program, stating: “This scheme goes beyond work-based training. It’s genuinely transforming lives by boosting individuals' confidence, sense of purpose, and overall wellbeing. By providing opportunities like these, we’re helping build brighter futures for people across our community.”

Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), Growth Works with Skills has partnered with over 500 businesses across the region. The programme empowers residents, offering interns the opportunity to showcase their skills and provide support in securing long-term employment opportunities.

For more information about Internships with Growth Works with Skills and how it is shaping careers across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, visit: www.growthworkswithskills.com. 

 

ENDS 

 

Editor Notes 

How does the scheme work?
Growth Works with Skills is committed to providing high-quality internships, each funded up to 50% through UK Shared Prosperity fund (UKSPF), for employers seeking to expand their teams with talented interns. These internships require a commitment of between 16 and 30 hours per week over a duration of 13 weeks, with compensation at least meeting the national living wage to those of 21 years or above, or if under 21, national minimum wage applies.  

Our aim is to offer valuable opportunities to individuals who are currently outside the workforce or formal training, helping them overcome barriers and build brighter futures. 

 

The benefits for employers taking on an intern  

Talent Discovery Uncover hidden gems and fresh talent through innovative recruitment methods like Assessment Task-based recruitment.  

Financial Support: Access match funding opportunities to recruit interns, opening doors to talent acquisition. Infusion of Energy Bring new energy into your workplace, fostering creativity and growth while building a pipeline of potential future employees. Innovative Thinking Embrace fresh ideas and unique perspectives from interns, driving productivity and innovation.  

Mentorship Opportunities Growth Works with Skills supports mentoring interns and existing staff, nurturing leadership skills and fostering continuous learning and development.  

Expert Support Gain access to resources like Training Needs Analysis (TNA) and personalised guidance from our Skills Brokers and the Growth Hub, empowering your business growth.  

 

Digital Badges with Growth Works with Skills 

Digital badges offer a modern way to store and showcase skills and experiences. As part of the internship programme, participants will have the opportunity to earn digital badges that recognise the skills gained during their placement. These badges can be shared on social media platforms, helping to demonstrate qualifications and experience to potential future employers. 

The earned digital badges can be stored on My Skills Pass, a digital skills wallet and CV. This platform allows individuals to continue building their digital CV with badges obtained during their internship. Participants can also upload other certificates and records of achievement to help them stand out in the competitive job market. 

Internship participants will receive their first badge immediately for showing an interest in internships, with further opportunities to earn more badges as they progress through the programme. The platform also enables users to store other achievements and certifications. 

Learners and job seekers can explore the benefits of digital badges by creating a free account via the Combined Authority’s website, where they can access a Skills Pass. Digital badges are a smart, simple, and visual way of recognising non-accredited learning.