Better Business / Member news

Metro Mayor visits City of Bristol College to celebrate the success of their HGV skills bootcamp

By Bristol24/7  Friday Nov 17, 2023

The government’s ‘Skills Bootcamps’ initiative, aimed at helping individuals obtain a lorry driving license and secure employment, recently took center stage during Metro Mayor Dan Norris’s visit to City of Bristol College. This funding is available to both unemployed and employed individuals.

Partners in Bristol, a subsidiary of the college, is hosting the bootcamps, and the success of their Light Goods Vehicle (LGV) Skills Bootcamp prompted increased support for individuals across the city and beyond. To celebrate this success, metro mayor Dan Norris visited the Motor Vehicle Technology Centre in Parkway, accompanied by employers, creating a unique networking opportunity with learners.

Dan Norris with the CoBC team and students – photo: City of Bristol College

During the visit, Mr. Norris had a lighthearted introduction to the Skills Bootcamp as he took the wheel of a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV). Expressing his excitement, he noted, “It was exciting; I quite liked it! One of the best parts of my job is that I am able to get involved in tasters of experiences, and today’s experience was great.”

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Among the success stories highlighted during the visit was 18-year-old Stan Baker, who gained his standard driving license in January and has already secured a full HGV license, now working for Willmotts Transport. Stan shared his journey, starting with a smaller vehicle and gradually progressing, emphasising the continuous learning in his new role.

The managing director of Partners in Bristol, Rob Hazelton, expressed gratitude for the support and showcased the program’s success in addressing the skills gap. The visit highlighted the positive impact of the Skills Bootcamps, providing opportunities for individuals to gain licenses and secure meaningful employment.

Main photo: City of Bristol College

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