Advance: developing your skills for work

If you’re over the age of 16, have a job and live in South Yorkshire, Advance provides opportunities for you to develop your skills to get more out of work.

We work with people that are on low incomes or low hours to access free training and development. This can help you progress in your current role, access more hours, or look for new jobs in a range of sectors and industries.

Our team have helpful insight into the training and development that’s available locally and can find options that work best for you. When you contact us, our team will put you in touch with one of our advisors who'll talk to you about your goals and explore your skills, experience and aspirations.

To find out more, email employmentsupport@barnsley.gov.uk or call (01226) 775100 (phone lines are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm).

Is there a cost for the training?

Training is free for individuals as it's funded through the European Social Fund. This will be dependent on the type of training that you’re looking to undertake. Our advisors can help you to find options that suit you best.

What kind of training do you offer?

We have a range of training options to suit you. These include short courses, awards, and accredited units and qualifications. These are all focused on improving your employability. When you get in touch you can complete a free skills analysis. Our team will then offer training to help you to develop your skills.

Will the training lead to a qualification?

We can provide training that will lead to qualifications where it’s identified that it'll benefit your current position and make it so that you can achieve your goals.

What’s the time commitment?

We offer a range of options with various time commitments. Our advisors can help you to select opportunities that work best for you.

Do I need to take time off work?

It depends on the type of training. Many providers offer evening courses and a variety of daytime courses to fit around shifts and work commitments. Our advisors can help you to select opportunities that work best for you.

I have a zero-hours contract - can I apply for the scheme?

Yes - anyone currently in work can apply.

I’m self-employed - can I apply for the scheme?

Yes - self-employed people can apply.

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) Advance programme is delivered across Doncaster, Sheffield and Barnsley. Advance SYMCA is supported financially by the European Union and aims to enhance equal access to lifelong learning for all.