West Yorkshire Combined Authority

& Think Employment Partnership

Working with the
West Yorkshire Combined Authority to Build a Stronger Future with Further Education Funding

West Yorkshire is a vibrant region in North England, encompassing dynamic cities like Leeds, Bradford, and Huddersfield. Renowned for its industrial heritage, cultural richness, and focus on sustainability, West Yorkshire plays a critical role in shaping the UK’s economy. Through our partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), Think Employment drives the region’s skills development, inclusivity, and economic growth. WYCA governs strategic transport, housing, skills, and economic regeneration initiatives. Tracy Brabin, re-elected in 2024, serves as the Mayor of West Yorkshire and also assumes the role of Police and Crime Commissioner. Deputy Mayor Alison Lowe OBE supports her. The authority collaborates with local councils and business leaders to address regional priorities and economic challenges.

Together, we’re creating opportunities for learners to unlock their potential and contribute to West Yorkshire’s thriving workforce by offering Funded Courses and Government Funded training programs.

Driving Economic Growth in Key Sectors

By prioritising job-ready skills and career sustainability, Think Employment bridges the gap between industry needs and the workforce’s potential.

Education

Our Skills Bootcamp in Teaching Support equips learners with the qualifications to become professional teaching assistants, addressing the rising demand for Teaching Assistant Jobs and ensuring local schools have access to skilled staff. Interested in a career as a Teaching Assistant? Discover the course that can help you get started.

Understanding the Role of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority in Further Education Funding

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority drives strategic initiatives to enhance transport, housing, and economic regeneration while addressing workforce challenges. With a population of 2.35 million and an employment rate of 72.5%, just below the national average of 75.5%. The region faces hurdles like skills shortages, youth unemployment, and economic inactivity. These obstacles are particularly evident in key sectors like education, digital technology, and sustainable industries. Think Employment aligns with WYCA’s mission by providing targeted education and Further Education Funding solutions, which address these challenges head-on. Our Funded Courses aim to upskill the workforce and fill gaps critical to the region’s economic resilience.

Think Employment's Online Training Approach for Teaching Assistant Training

Think Employment combines flexibility with high-impact learning to ensure every learner can achieve their career goals. Our unique approach includes:

Highlights of our programmes:

Courses and Qualifications with Funded Opportunities

At Think Employment, we provide training that helps learners achieve tangible career success. One of our flagship programs is the Skills Bootcamp in Teaching Support, a tailored initiative designed for individuals seeking rewarding educational roles.

Qualification and Delivery

This program offers a Level 3 Qualification in Teaching Support, ensuring learners gain theoretical and practical knowledge. The course lasts 16 weeks and is delivered online through live tutor-led lessons, allowing learners to accommodate their existing schedules.

Key Modules Covered

The Skills Bootcamp includes several vital modules to equip you with a strong foundation in teaching support:

Safeguarding and Wellbeing

Learn safeguarding guidelines to create and maintain safe and supportive learning environments for children.

Understanding Child Development

Develop an understanding of key developmental milestones and strategies to support children from birth to age 19 effectively.

Special Educational Needs (SEN) Support

Acquire strategies to support children with autism and other diverse learning requirements. Please visit our Health and Social Care Courses page for more information on SEN-specific qualifications.

Career Opportunities

The Skills Bootcamp in Teaching Support equips learners with the skills and qualifications to enter meaningful educational roles. Graduates can explore rewarding positions such as teaching assistants, classroom support workers, or SEN specialists, significantly impacting the classroom.

Sustainability and Inclusivity Supported by Government-Funded Training

Think Employment aligns closely with WYCA’s goals for creating a greener and more inclusive West Yorkshire. Our contributions include:

Bridging Digital Skills Gaps

Providing Online Training Courses and digital literacy training to empower all demographics, including adults re-entering the workforce

Supporting Disadvantaged Groups

Offering Funded Courses that reduce barriers to employment for low-income residents, career changers, and care leavers.

By delivering accessible and future-focused training, we’re fostering an economy where every individual has an opportunity to thrive.

Further Education Funding Support

Are you ready to take the next step toward a brighter future? Whether you’re a learner seeking new skills or a partner looking to upskill your workforce with Online Training Courses, Think Employment supports your goals.