Step Up at SERC offers pathways into employment

SERC is launching phase two of the Step-Up programme in January 2024.  Step Up offers a wide range of flexible courses designed to support the economically inactive to access education or employment. Step Up is funded under the UK government’s New Deal for Northern Ireland initiative, which is managed by the Department for the Economy.

With different pathways, the programme is aimed at people who need support to return to training and education, and who are missing out on job opportunities. Schedules are flexible and the focus is very much on the individual student.

College Connect+ is aimed at people between the ages of 16-24 who are not currently working, studying or training. With an individual development plan, mentorship, and careers advice, College Connect+ supports learners to gain a level 1 qualification as well as the personal skills and the mindset employers look for.

College Connect 24+ targets those aged 25 and over who are currently not in education, employment or any training. This pathway aims to help individuals restart their education journey. We understand how daunting it can be to come back to education and we want to help you take that first step. Our approach is student centred and we are confident that we will be able to support and inspire you to learn and achieve, regardless of the challenges you face.  The course will cover English, Maths and study skills, and taster sessions on IT, science, well-being and resilience, and social science, and will last for 12 weeks. Both College Connect+ and College Connect 24+ will start the week of 8 January at SERC’s Bangor and Lisburn Campuses.

WRAP supports women over the age of 18 to return to work following an extended career break. This programme is aimed at unemployed or economically inactive women who wish to build confidence, to refresh skills, and to take time for themselves to refocus on career pathways or return to education.

WRAP will be running FREE programmes commencing in January 2024 for 12 weeks, delivered mainly in the community across Bangor, Newtownards, Lisburn, Downpatrick, Ballynahinch and Newcastle areas, and also at SERC's Lisburn Campus commencing on Monday 8 January from 1.15pm - 4.15pm,1 day a week; and at  Bangor Campus, commencing on Friday 12 January from 9.30am - 12.30pm, 1 day a week; and at Ballynahinch Campus on Thursday 11 January from 9.30am - 12.30pm, 1 day per week.  All programmes will focus on looking out for yourself and your wellbeing.

Eligible students on the new Step-Up Programme can apply for assistance with funding for travel and childcare costs to help them complete their course.

For more information: www.serc.ac.uk/stepup or email stepup@serc.ac.uk