Skills Bootcamps
As Suffolk’s economy continues to evolve, the need for a skilled and adaptable workforce has never been more critical. Skills Bootcamps – part of the Government’s wider Skills for Life initiative – present a powerful opportunity for employers and individuals to respond to these changing demands.
These flexible, employer-led training programmes are designed to equip adults with sector-specific skills over a short period (up to 16 weeks), supporting people into new roles or helping existing employees progress within their organisations. For employers, Skills Bootcamps offer a practical route to address recruitment gaps, upskill teams, and shape training that aligns directly with real-world needs. You can read more about businesses experiences on our case studies page.
In Suffolk, Skills Bootcamps have already supported local businesses in sectors such as digital, health and social care, construction, green energy, logistics and more. They can be tailored to support both new entrants and current employees looking to take on higher responsibilities.
What’s next?
Our Wave 6 Skills Bootcamp tender is now live! This is an exciting time for growth of these programmes and is successful we hope to expand the range of Skills Bootcamps to include additional Construction, AI Digital, Visitor Economy, Hospitality, Bus Driving, and Retrofit. The tender can be found via the following sources:
Government – Find a Tender
https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/031212-2025
Suffolk Sourcing
https://in-tendhost.co.uk/suffolksourcing/aspx/ProjectManage/18857
There will be a Tenderer Briefing taking place via Teams Monday 16th June at 2.00 p.m. To access the link please sign up to Suffolk Sourcing.
Why it matters:
- ✔️ Employers can co-design training that leads directly to job outcomes
- ✔️ Individuals gain industry-relevant skills and guaranteed job interviews
- ✔️ Suffolk’s economy benefits from a more agile and future-ready workforce
Businesses across the county are encouraged to explore how Skills Bootcamps can support growth, recruitment, and staff retention — particularly in sectors where vacancies are hard to fill.
If you’re interested in partnering on Skills Bootcamps or would like to receive updates on the upcoming procurement, please contact [email protected] or visit https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/business/supporting-employers-training-your-workforce/skills-bootcamps or register on the Suffolk Sourcing e-tendering portal: http://www.suffolksourcing.uk/