Printed Date: 06/10/2024

GLL and Prince's Trust

Leisure operator and charitable social enterprise GLL is partnering with The Prince’s Trust to run a FREE three-week ‘Get into Leisure’ programme designed to help young people not currently in employment or education gain skills and secure a job within the leisure industry.

The course launches on 13th June and is open to 16 – 25 year olds, living in Manchester who are currently unemployed, on zero hours contracts or working less than 16 hours per week.  Only those in education for less than 14 hours per week are eligible.

During the three-week programme participants will:

  • Gain work experience within a leisure centre
  • Learn catering and concierge skills relevant to the leisure industry
  • Take part in employability skills workshops
  • Receive one-on-one support from a Prince’s Trust mentor
  • Choose to complete an accredited Lifeguard qualification (NPLQ)

Following a graduation ceremony, those who complete the programme and pass an interview will be offered employment in a range of roles at GLL-operated leisure facilities in Manchester.

Terry Marks 24yrs, Get into Leisure 2022 graduate, who now works at the Manchester Aquatics Centre said: “I really enjoyed the course, particularly the practical learning elements.  I felt a real sense of achievement as I developed new skills and my swimming improved massively as I trained for my lifeguarding qualification.  After completing the course I was offered casual or full time work with GLL and am still working for them today.”

Commenting on the ‘Get into Leisure’ initiative, Gaynor Doran, People Business Partner at GLL said: “We are excited about the programme and look forward to seeing the participants grow in confidence whilst they develop new skills.  For those who complete the programme, there will be multiple employment opportunities available within the leisure centres and sports venues that we operate, including the Manchester Aquatics Centre which reopens in June following a massive £31 million refurbishment, and Abraham Moss Leisure Centre, due to reopen in August.”

Julie Ainscough, Head of Service Delivery for Greater Manchester at The Prince's Trust, added: "Our ‘Get into’ programmes give young people the opportunity to gain ‘on the job’ experience and training across a range of different industries, enabling them to develop the skills they need to fulfil their potential and get their foot in the door with relevant employers. We're thrilled to be able to partner with GLL to deliver this new programme and give young people the opportunity to learn new skills and gain experience in the leisure industry."

 

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