Feature: An in-depth look at learning and further education

It's never too late to learn skills for the fun of it or to gain new qualifications.

Whether you're a mature student, a school leaver looking to go into further education or want extra workplace training to further your career there's a plethora of learning opportunities in Swindon.

UTC Swindon: Transforming Lives Through Learning

UTC Swindon is a local STEM-focused school and sixth form for students aged 14 to 19, offering a. dynamic and forward-thinking education that prepares young people for the opportunities of tomorrow.
Specialising in Engineering, Digital Technologies and Cyber Security, UTC Swindon combines academic excellence with technical expertise to help students develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for higher education, apprenticeships and employment.
At the heart of UTC Swindon is its commitment to “Transforming Lives Through Learning”. Students benefit from an innovative curriculum that connects classroom learning with real world application, encouraging curiosity, problem-solving and creativity.
The sixth form offers a range of specialist pathways, including engineering, cyber security and A-Levels, enabling students to tailor their studies to their aspirations.
A defining feature of UTC Swindon is its strong partnership with leading employers and industry experts.
Through meaningful work experience, employer-led projects and exposure to real business challenges, students gain invaluable insight into the workplace while developing the technical and professional skills that employers seek.
UTC Swindon’s award-winning Digital Futures Programme further enhances these opportunities, helping students explore emerging technologies and future careers.
With a supportive culture, specialist facilities and a clear focus on careerready education, UTC Swindon is equipping the next generation of engineers, digital innovators and cyber security professionals to thrive in an increasingly technological world.
www.utcswindon.co.uk

Improve your workplace skills with Key Performance Training

Here at Key Performance Training, we offer a fantastic range of high quality, accredited training courses to a wide range of adult learners.
We work with local businesses, helping them keep their staff and sites safe, by delivering HSE-approved, regulated training courses on a range of subjects, such as RTITB accredited forklift training and Ofqual regulated first aid, fire safety, manual handling, personal protection and health and safety training.
We also work with local individuals, who might be looking for a change in career.
Our experienced and highly rated trainers ensure delegates attain the key skills employers are looking for.
We also offer some training schemes which are funded by the Government. Through the Adult Skills Fund, we offer warehouse and forklift training programmes for job seekers or those on low incomes, to help improve their employability and offer them a pathway to employment.
Our dedicated training centre in Kembrey Park allows us to host all these courses for you, or our trainers can come to your site, to deliver the training where you need.
Visit our website for the full range of courses we offer, and to see how we can improve your skills with us today.
For more details visit www.keyperformancetraining.co.uk

Help support the National Literacy Trust

In Swindon, low levels of literacy are holding too many people back – limiting their chances of success at school and work, and negatively impacting their self-esteem, confidence and wellbeing.
The National Literacy Trust in Swindon works at the town’s heart to tackle this challenge.
We partner with schools, families and community groups to inspire a love of reading, improve literacy skills, and give children the best possible start in life.
Last year, we donated 10,000 books and we ran projects to support people from early years to adulthood. Our work reaches thousands each year.
But we can’t do this alone.
With your support, we can reach more families, provide more resources and create lasting change.
Together, we can make a difference to the people in Swindon.
Find out more, including our volunteering opportunities, by visiting fb.com/SwindonLiteracyTrust

Discover the joys of clay at Eastcott Studios

It seems we're all looking for ways to slow life down.
Whether it's spending time with family, learning a new skill or simply taking a break from our screens, more people are discovering the simple pleasure of making something with their own hands.
There's something special about working with clay, it encourages you to slow down, forget the outside world and simply enjoy creating.
At Eastcott Studios, we welcome people of all ages and abilities. Some come to paint pottery, others make their own creations or experience the excitement of a potter's wheel for the first time, all with plenty of laughter, lots of mud and loads of fun!
You don't need to be artistic or have any experience.
Pottery is about enjoying the process, trying something new and making memories. Whether you're looking for a relaxing escape, a family activity or a new hobby, you'll always find a warm welcome at Eastcott Studios.
www.eastcottstudios.co.uk