Our network of training hubs deliver volunteering opportunities and skills-based learning, allowing trainees to gain skills, connections, experience and Arts Award qualifications.
In 2017, we opened the doors to Sound Academy and invited Bath and North East Somerset to join us. Running After School Training and Alternative Provision, we engaged with local secondary school students to learn audio production skills. We delivered numerous training qualifications but critically our students left the studio with more than a piece of paper - they developed their self-esteem, confidence and transferable skills. We also deliver customised Adult Training which is open to all abilities looking to develop radio and podcasting skills.
Building on the success of this skills-based learning formula, we have grown a network of Sound Academy training hubs and introduced Pathway to Employment - a professional development focused programme open to all. We also offer opportunities to gain Arts Award qualifications, we have awarded over 50 over the last 2 years.
Secondary school students
Our After School Training and Alternative Provision allow young people to express themselves, cultivate skills and explore their creativity.
Developing professionals
Pathway to Employment is open to everyone! We welcome professionals looking to hone skills, first-time job seekers, and everyone in between.
Adults looking to learn
Our customised inclusive Adult Training is open to all abilities who want to develop radio and podcasting skills.
A compliment to formal education for secondary school students, we offer young people of all abilities and backgrounds the opportunity to develop skills and express themselves in a safe and supportive environment. We provide nationally recognised awards and qualifications.
Trainees work with our experienced SEND-qualified trainers to learn all the skills necessary to make a radio programme or a podcast. They learn skills which enhance educational and employment pathways, and most importantly, improve mental health and wellbeing.
We work with local schools that identify students, typically Years 8 - 10, who would benefit from an alternative approach to classroom learning.
Alternative Provision provides a meaningful learning experience for students who are not thriving in a traditional classroom environment. Trainees develop confidence, collaboration and communication skills that will help keep them engaged with school and their positive progression in education.
Sound Academy offers customised learning for all ages and abilities in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment. Pathway to Employment has a focus on employability but is open to everyone looking to develop their skills. We welcome professionals looking to broaden their experience and skills, first-time job seekers, and everyone in between. Focusing on employability, we use a mix of workshops, mentoring, traineeships and work placements to hone interview skills, CV crafting, proficiency with LinkedIn and confidence in the workplace.
Adult Training is open to adults interested in radio, podcasting or developing their communication skills. It is customised to each individual's needs and aspirations, whether they want to learn to be a researcher, writer, producer, presenter, editor or technician.
Trainees make a regular daily, weekly or monthly commitment and receive free personalised training. They can develop skills, meet new people, represent their community, and volunteer for public benefit. The inclusive training welcomes adults of all abilities.
Without my work placement through Pathway to Employment, I have no doubt that I would not have gained the skills, experience and most importantly the confidence required to thrive in a corporate environment."
Natalie Randall, UKI Social Media Lead, Accenture & PR and Media Consultant, Sound Vision
