Bristol Airport has launched the second cohort of its Take Off Programme, a training and skills initiative designed to help young people aged 18-24 take the next step into employment.
This follows on from the success of the first Take Off Programme ‘Soaring to Success’ where five learners completed the course and were all offered employment with Business Partners at the Airport, including M & S, Boots, SSP and First Bus.
Delivered in partnership with Weston College and North Somerset Council, the programme will provide mentoring, employability workshops, and skills development tailored to support young learners who are currently not in employment, education or training. The initiative is aimed at empowering participants to secure meaningful roles, including opportunities with employers such as Business Partners at Bristol Airport.
Funded by a section 106 agreement with the council, the programme is part of Bristol Airport’s wider commitment to supporting local people into work and helping the region thrive.
The second cohort was officially launched on Monday 8 September, continuing the programme’s focus on supporting individuals from the local area, including Weston-super-Mare and South Bristol.
Pat Jones, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College, said:
"We are delighted to partner with Bristol Airport on the Take Off Programme. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing inclusive education and training opportunities, ensuring individuals from all backgrounds can develop the skills needed to thrive in the workforce."
Councillor Catherine Gibbons, North Somerset Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Families, Skills and Lifelong Learning, said:
“It’s fantastic to see Bristol Airport continuing to invest in young people from North Somerset. The Take Off programme not only provides practical skills and valuable work experience but also builds confidence and ambition in those who may have faced barriers to work. We’re proud to support this initiative and look forward to seeing even more young people benefit from the opportunities it creates.”
Cherie Marchant, People Director at Bristol Airport, said:
“Through our strong partnerships with organisations such as Weston College and North Somerset Council, we’re able to provide young people with valuable, real-world experiences that go beyond the classroom.
“These collaborations ensure that participants develop the practical skills, confidence, and knowledge that employers are actively looking for. The Take Off Programme is all about creating opportunities and removing barriers, whether that means securing a role with one of our Business Partners at the Airport or exploring other exciting and rewarding career paths.
“By opening doors in this way, we’re helping to shape the next generation of talent and support young people in building futures they can be proud of.”
More than 5,500 people work at Bristol Airport, with 70% of employees living within 20 miles of the airport.
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