European Social Fund

The Learning & Enterprise Centre also run innovative European Social Fund (ESF) programmes.

WHAT are the aims?
In line with the remit of other structural funds, ESF programmes aim to:

• reduce unemployment
• improve and develop the skills of employed people
• invest in industrial or rural areas which are in decline
• invest in areas with low economic development

WHO can benefit?
To date, University College Chester's ESF programmes have helped:

• Over 25s
• Single Parents
• Deaf Learners
• Unemployed/Underemployed graduates

HOW do we do this?
It's best to illustrate by example! Here are some programmes that we have already successfully run for our clients:

The Positive Experience programme allowed graduates of any subject from any UK University to engage in a business placement for four months. Each beneficiary received a training allowance for the duration of the placement and participated on a business skills support programme.

They were able to apply skills and knowledge in the workplace, bring skills up-to-date, enhance their CV and thus increase their chances of securing and thriving in future employment. A lot of our graduates have progressed from the programme to permanent positions, have enroled on further courses or have even started up their own businesses.

If you were a graduate working in a small private business, then the TransITion programme provided a perfect opportunity for your professional development.

The graduates had a choice of seven European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) modules and tests, or an undergraduate level module of Self Review.

A Month in the Life of an Undergraduate was just that - a chance for the mature members of the local community to get a free sample of what University life has to offer. The lectures and workshops encouraged participants to get involved with group work and to unlock their hidden talents.

As a result, many were inspired to search for more information and courses for pleasure - 'Life Long Learning' in action!

WHAT is currently available?
The Learning & Enterprise Centre has recently set-up two new ESF programmes, detailed below:

Mature Outlook is aimed at recruiting mature students to Higher Education courses of study. There will be a chance to:
This programme is open to anyone who is over 19 years old (on or before 31st July 2004) and has not already gained a Level 4 qualification (degree level or equivalent).

Sign of the Times provides an opportunity for unemployed deaf learners to sample University lectures, workshops and resources for a month. We can also provide an outreach service to bring modern training materials direct to learners (for groups of five or more). Please ask for more details.

Download our application form
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For all enquiries regarding ESF programmes please call
Nicola on 01244 220404 or e-mail n.roberts@chester.ac.uk