Bristol Airport Launches ‘Take Off Programme’ to Empower Local Job Seekers and Bridge Employment Gaps

(IN SHORT) Bristol Airport has launched the ‘Take Off Programme,’ a new training initiative designed to help local residents overcome employment barriers. Funded by the Achieve Fund and developed in partnership with North Somerset Council, the programme targets various groups, including students, retired professionals, and those who have been out of the workforce due to family or caring commitments. Special focus is given to underrepresented groups and individuals facing challenges like mental health issues or low confidence, particularly in the Weston-super-Mare and South Bristol areas. Educational partners Weston College and Partners in Bristol will deliver tailored training and employability workshops, with the aim of equipping participants with the skills needed to access local job opportunities, including positions at the Airport.

(PRESS RELEASE) BRISTOL, 2025-Apr-2 — /Travel PR News/ — Bristol Airport has unveiled an innovative training and skills development initiative aimed at supporting local residents facing employment challenges in the region. Dubbed the ‘Take Off Programme,’ the initiative, which launches this month, will offer mentoring and tailored skills training to a diverse group of individuals including students, retired professionals returning to work, and those who have been out of the workforce due to family or caring responsibilities.

The programme places a special emphasis on assisting underrepresented groups and individuals with employment barriers—such as mental health challenges or low confidence—especially in the Weston-super-Mare and South Bristol areas. Funded by Bristol Airport’s Achieve Fund, the initiative is a collaborative effort with educational partners: Weston College will work with younger unemployed individuals not currently engaged in training or study, while Partners in Bristol, a branch of City of Bristol College, will focus on re-skilling older job seekers. The scheme features a series of employability workshops, tailored programmes, and practical activities designed to prepare participants for re-entry into the job market.

Cherie Marchant, People Director at Bristol Airport, commented, “Leveraging our unique partnerships at the Airport, we can provide invaluable work experience and skills training to those facing obstacles to employment. Our hope is that, following their training, these individuals will be well-prepared to take advantage of local job opportunities, including roles at the Airport.” The Achieve Fund, a product of a partnership with North Somerset Council under a Section 106 planning commitment related to airport development, aims to drive employment, skills interventions, and a wide array of community activities.

Weston College, already a key partner in initiatives like apprenticeship training with the Airport, welcomed the launch of the Take Off Programme. Pat Jones, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College, stated, “We are delighted to partner with Bristol Airport on this programme. It perfectly aligns with our mission to provide inclusive education and training opportunities that empower individuals from all backgrounds to develop the skills necessary for success in the workforce.” Rob Hazelton, Managing Director of Partners, added, “At Partners in Bristol, we take pride in helping individuals build the skills and confidence needed to re-enter the workforce. Through bespoke programmes that include hands-on work experience at the Airport followed by customized vocational courses, we are equipping learners to secure sustainable employment that benefits both them and the wider community.”

Media contact:
pressoffice@bristolairport.com

SOURCE: Bristol Airport