Almost £250,000 in extra government funding – pushing Coventry's youth education investment over £1 million – to target the city's most disadvantaged young people with life-changing skills training.
The funding will directly support expanding the delivery team and developing new programmes across key employment sectors, focusing on numeracy, literacy, English language and digital skills training.
The supplementary funding will enhance the Adult Education Service's ability to deliver flexible learning programmes including study programmes, supported internships, health and wellbeing support, and essential skills development – all designed to build pathways with the Coventry Job Shop to employment, apprenticeships, and further education.
The investment specifically targets young people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and those with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) aged 19-24.
Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “This substantial investment of over £1 million demonstrates our unwavering commitment to Coventry's young people.
“We know many of our young residents face significant barriers to employment and education, particularly those from our most deprived communities.
“This funding will allow us to expand our reach and provide the flexible, employment-focused programmes that can truly change lives and break the cycle of disadvantage.”
The additional investment will enable the Adult Education Service to grow its delivery team and develop programmes linked to key employment sectors, focusing on improving numeracy, literacy, English language and digital skills.
The funding also provides opportunities to align with other city initiatives including Coventry Job Shop’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Connect to Work, and Youth Trailblazer programmes.
Whilst Coventry has the lowest youth unemployment rate in the West Midlands, it continues to see challenges with young people not in employment, education or training (NEET), with many residents from economically inactive households living in areas of high deprivation. This targeted investment addresses these challenges head-on by capitalising on the city's strong partnerships with employers and voluntary sector organisations.
Councillor Dr Sandhu added: “Education and skills development are fundamental to building strong communities and improving economic prosperity in our city.
“This funding allows us to take a more comprehensive approach – not just delivering qualifications, but building confidence, developing life skills, and creating pathways to sustainable employment. It's an investment that will pay dividends for our young people and our city for years to come.”
The programmes will include study programmes, supported internships, health and wellbeing support, and essential skills development, all designed to support young people's progression into sustainable paid work, further education, or apprenticeships.
The funding award reflects the government's confidence in Coventry's Adult Education Service and aligns with national priorities around youth employment and skills development, including the Get Britain Working Local Plan.