Better Business / Member news
Combined Authority-funded skills bootcamp drives culture shift and staff retention at college
Following its ‘Good’ Ofsted rating, City of Bristol College has focused on cultural transformation, placing people at the heart of its strategy.
A key part of this transformation is the introduction of the Management Academy and Aspiring Leaders Skills Bootcamps, developed in partnership with local employers through funding from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA).
The results speak volumes. Staff turnover has decreased from 23.35 per cent in 2021/2022 to a projected 14.4 per cent this year. Additionally, the college has seen a 98 per cent completion rate for appraisals and a 4.58-point increase in engagement (on a 5-point scale), compared to just 54 per cent last year.
Launched in January 2023, the Management Academy involved all college line managers at every level, guiding them through their professional management development.
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The college’s HR team, driven by the belief that “Your line manager has more impact on your mental health than your therapist,” has prioritised not only professional growth but also the well-being of individuals in their approach.
By developing leaders and managers who can shape a positive work environment, the college has solidified its commitment to a people-first culture.
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with one noting, “It was brilliant training. The trainer was great, the venue was fantastic, and I liked the presentation task on the last day too. Overall, it was the best in-house training session I have ever attended. Thank you!”
Following the success of the Management Academy, the college extended its training to aspiring leaders in January 2024. This programme mirrors the main Academy, offering development opportunities to staff who may not have had access to this training otherwise.
The college’s HR team views these initiatives as vital for building a positive, supportive workplace.
One participant shared, “Overall, it was a fantastic opportunity that allowed staff to develop further. Thank you for creating the time and space for reflection and learning.”
Another added, “The results of taking part in the course are already tangible within my team. I feel more capable, enfranchised, and part of the bigger picture.”
“Leadership and management training is essential for fostering a people-first culture,” said Hayley Shaw, director of human resources & organisational development at City of Bristol College
The leadership and management training offered through the bootcamps provides a foundation for anyone looking to step into management or leadership roles. For those with aspirations to develop their careers in this direction, the City of Bristol College Management Academy is an excellent starting point.
These successes were only made possible thanks to MCA funding. The impact of the programmes has been transformative, creating a more inclusive and engaging workplace culture while improving employee retention through increased job satisfaction and a stronger sense of belonging.
Hayley Shaw, director of human resources & organisational development at City of Bristol College, commented: “Leadership and management training is essential for fostering a people-first culture.
“These skills ensure that everyone who leads and manages people has the knowledge and ability to support their team and deliver excellence.
“Collaborating with Partners in Bristol to offer Skills Bootcamps has been a great success, and we’ve seen real, impactful change within the college.”
Following its ‘Good’ Ofsted rating, City of Bristol College has focused on cultural transformation, placing people at the heart of its strategy
Rob Hazelton, managing director of Partners in Bristol, added: “I’m delighted that MCA-funded opportunities have allowed us to deliver bespoke Leadership & Management training.
“The results have supported organisations like City of Bristol College, empowering their workforce and helping them achieve their goals. It’s rewarding to see this collaboration driving tangible, positive change.”
For more information regarding Leadership & Management Skills Bootcamps please contact Partners in Bristol on 0117 312 5777 or enquiries@PIB.cityofbristol.ac.uk
All photos: City of Bristol College
City of Bristol College are member of the Bristol24/7 Better Business network, an initiative to help businesses thrive while creating a positive impact on Bristol and the people who live here. As part of their membership, businesses can publish member news stories like this. For more information, visit my.bristol247.com/better-business
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