University of the West of England, Bristol

Green Skills for Jobs and Entrepreneurship

Green Skills is a unique and transformational programme that provides access to jobs, training, and business opportunities to Black, Asian and minoritized young people (aged 18-28) and recent graduates living in Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Bath, and North East Somerset to address the inequalities in the sustainability sector.

This is a two-stage pilot project launched in response to the need for economic recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic and the demand for 50,000 new jobs to be created in the region by 2030 to meet zero-carbon targets.

The key objectives of the Green Skills programme are to support the West of England’s transition to a green economy, close the skills gap between job opportunities and young people and tackle the underrepresentation of people from minoritized backgrounds in environmental careers.

What the Judges Thought

The project addresses an important issue in the Environmental profession. The project has achieved so much over such a short period of time, reflecting the passion of the people involved. A very replicable project that fits the award criteria very well.

What it Means to Win

“Sustainability is at the heart of Transforming Futures, UWE’s Strategy 2030. Winning this Green Gown award is welcome recognition for the many actions of students and staff that are helping to make UWE Bristol a more sustainable university.”

Professor Steve West, Vice Chancellor, President and CEO

Top 3 Learnings

1. We identified a community who were eager to access green skills training.
2. We used business partners from the community, making learning relatable and equitable.
3. We designed the programme to be accessible, inclusive, and put diversity at its heart.