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New skills centre transforms old office into a career launchpad for young tradespeople

From empty office to opportunity hub: This September, young people will gain trade skills—and futures. Meet the programme already changing lives through construction training.

The image shows the South Vocational High School, a building with a door and sign boards on the...
The image shows the South Vocational High School, a building with a door and sign boards on the wall. At the bottom of the image, there is a walkway leading up to the entrance.

New skills centre transforms old office into a career launchpad for young tradespeople

A former ForHousing office will soon become a new skills centre, offering practical training in trades like bricklaying, tiling and joinery. The facility, set to open in September, forms part of the wider Bright Futures scheme, which has already helped dozens of people into work, education, and business over the past year. Local leaders say the centre will give young people better access to qualifications and career support. The new skills centre builds on the success of ForHousing’s existing programme in Salford. Last year, that site delivered over 550 construction classes, with 27 students earning qualifications and 59% progressing into jobs, further education, or training.

Bright Futures has made a measurable impact across the region in the past 12 months. It assisted 24 people in finding employment or apprenticeships, arranged 26 work experience placements, and supported 44 individuals in gaining qualifications. The scheme also helped launch 18 new businesses. The School Links programme, another branch of Bright Futures, will now expand through partnerships with local schools and colleges. Students in key stage 4 will have the chance to earn construction qualifications while still in education. One former student, now an electrical apprentice and mentor, credited the skills centre with helping them build essential skills and land a job. Cllr Margaret Harvey, cabinet member for children’s services, explained that the centre’s goal is to equip young people with the qualifications and support they need for future careers.

The transformed office will open its doors in September, offering hands-on training in key trades. With a track record of helping people into work and education, the Bright Futures scheme aims to extend its reach through this new facility. The initiative will also strengthen ties with schools to provide early career opportunities for students.

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