Hundreds of courses are being made available for adults across York and North Yorkshire.
York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has commissioned 22 training providers to deliver learning as part of a £10.8 million Adult Skills Fund. The programme offers adults aged 19 and over the skills to secure work, for further learning or for personal growth.
This is the first-year courses in the region have been commissioned by York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. Previously, this had been led by the Government, until powers were devolved to a local level. It forms part of £30 million of skills investment in the region, led by the Combined Authority, during 2025-26.
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “York and North Yorkshire has never had more investment in skills. We are investing in these programmes to take our strong economy to the next level.
“We are working with the Government on trailblazing schemes and developing our own programmes like the Adult Skills Fund with our colleges and businesses.
“So far, we have committed to spend £30 million on these important programmes to drive good growth and connect people with high-paying and highly skilled jobs.”
For the Adult Skills Fund, learning covers roles such as digital, construction and manufacturing – skills local employers are looking for. Learning is available in-person, remotely and both during the day and evenings. The Adult Skills Fund also covers Free Courses for Jobs, which offers a free qualification that could help gain skills and improve wage and job prospects.
Courses may be fully or part-funded, dependant on learner eligibility criteria. Please speak to our providers to determine eligibility.
Among the courses available is a two-week Enterprise and Employability Skills programme, run by SCL, which combines practical business planning, financial literacy, and marketing strategies with essential workplace skills like time management and goal setting.
Victoria Olliman, from Selby, one of the learners who has completed the course, said: “The course has had such a positive impact on my confidence in setting up and running a business. It has been absolutely amazing – everyone has been so friendly and helpful. The tutor has been fantastic with a wealth of knowledge and personal experiences combined.”
For links to all providers running Adult Skills Fund courses, visit our webpage here.
Published on Friday 14 November 2025