SPARKS Project
Supporting Personal Growth and Career Development Across Gloucester
The Sparks Project is a government-funded initiative available to Gloucester residents aged 17 and over who have lived in the UK for a minimum of three years and pay Council Tax to Gloucester City Council.
Recognise your needs
Action and development plans set around your goals.
Training an development to raise esteem and confidence.
Support
CV Writing, applications and job search.
A continuous programme of support to cater for your needs.
Socialise & Networking
Face to face support with internet access and advice.
A network of local organisations gathering information.
Sparks Project Goal
Is to support individuals in improving their employability, gaining new qualifications, and progressing in their careers. We offer personalised, one-to-one guidance to identify suitable education and training opportunities. This includes help with enrolling in college courses and accessing local community-based learning.
We work in partnership with Family Hubs across Gloucester to provide additional support for parents and carers—offering courses to build confidence, enhance parenting skills, and increase access to further education.
The Sparks Project is here to help individuals take the next step towards a brighter, more secure future.
Sparks Project Vision
Our aim is to support individuals and communities across the Gloucester district by developing transferable skills that enhance employment opportunities. We are committed to helping people build the confidence needed to enter the workforce, whether through training, volunteering, or personal development. By empowering individuals to realise their potential, we strive to create stronger, more resilient communities.
Sparks Project Challenge
In our communities, many individuals face barriers to employment—whether it’s a lack of qualifications, low confidence, or not knowing where to start. Our challenge is to reach people early and offer the right support to help them move forward.
By connecting with individuals in familiar, trusted community settings, we can guide them towards the training and skills that make a real difference. This might include essential qualifications like Food Hygiene, Teaching Assistant courses, Maths and English (Entry Level to GCSE), and other vocational options.
Our goal is to make sure everyone has the opportunity to grow, feel confident, and take meaningful steps toward employment.
Sparks Project Criteria
To access support through the Sparks Project, individuals must meet the following criteria:
Be unemployed or looking to improve employment prospects
- Be aged 17 plus and not in education or training.
- Be a resident of Gloucester (must pay Council Tax to Gloucester City Council)
- Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
- Be unemployed or looking to improve employment prospects
If you meet these criteria, we’re here to support you on your journey toward further education, training, and employment.
Sparks Project Services
The Sparks Project offers a range of flexible, supportive services designed to meet individual needs.
Educational Courses
Maths, English, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), and personal development.
Vocational Qualifications
Food Hygiene, Teaching Assistant, IT Support Training, and sector-specific training.
1-on-1 Tailored Support
Personal guidance to find the right path for you, ensuring success and fulfillment.
Small Group Courses
This includes online course delivery with flixible formats to suit your lifestyle and learning style.
Gaining Work Experience
Opportunities for those who have been long-term unemployed or have never worked.
Group Support
Learn and grow in a relaxed, welcoming community setting, fostering personal development.
Sparks Project Impact So Far
35%
First Aid Training
Learners gaining qualifications.
15%
CSCS Training
Completing health & safety on a consruction site.
10%
ESOL
English for speakers of other Languages courses.
20%
Teaching Assistant
Gaining qualifications for supporting learning.
Supporting Families in Gloucester
Through our collaborative partnership with Family Hubs across Gloucester, we are committed to providing families and parents with access to a diverse array of educational and support courses. Our mission is to empower families by enhancing their skills, boosting their confidence, and improving their employability. We aim to support parents and carers in their personal development, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive. By participating in these courses, families can gain valuable knowledge and tools to navigate their educational and professional journeys successfully.
Partnership with Family Hubs & Gloucestershire Gateway Trust
We are working closely with Family Hubs across Gloucester to support parents and carers wishing to improve employability, attend courses, and participate in parenting and personal development programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services do you offer and is it free?
Yes – all services provided through the Sparks Project are completely free. This is because the project is funded by the UK Government to support residents of Gloucester in gaining skills, qualifications, and confidence to move into work or further education. Our aim is to remove barriers to learning and employment, so cost is never a reason to miss out on opportunities.
What does 1-on-1 support entail?
Our 1-to-1 support means you’ll have a dedicated team member working with you personally to understand your goals, strengths, and any challenges you might be facing.
- Helping you find the right courses or training
- Support with job searching, CVs, and applications
- Building confidence and setting realistic goals
- Referrals to other local services if needed
- Ongoing check-ins to keep you motivated and on track
It’s all tailored to you—at your pace, in a way that works best for your situation.
How can I further my skills and education through referrals?
We can refer you to trusted local partners and training providers who offer a wide range of courses and opportunities.
- College courses (e.g. Maths, English, IT, vocational training)
- Community-based learning in relaxed, supportive settings
- Specialist programmes like ESOL, parenting courses, or sector-specific qualifications
- Volunteering opportunities to build experience and confidence
How can you help improve my CV?
We can offer personalised support to help improve your CV and make it stand out to potential employers. Here’s how we can assist:
- Tailored CV Guidance
We’ll help you highlight your strengths, skills, and experiences in a way that matches your career goals. Whether you’re new to the job market or looking to change careers, we’ll guide you on how to present your experiences effectively. - Skills & Qualifications
We can suggest relevant qualifications or courses to add to your CV, enhancing your employability and making your application more competitive. This could include adding certifications like First Aid, ESOL, IT qualifications, or any other relevant courses. - Formatting & Structure
We’ll assist with the layout, making sure your CV is clear, easy to read, and professional. We ensure all the necessary sections are included, such as a strong personal statement, work experience, and skills section. - Job-Specific Customisation
If you’re applying for a specific role, we’ll help tailor your CV to match the job description, emphasising the skills and experiences that matter most to employers in that sector. - Ongoing Support
Once your CV is ready, we provide continued support with applications and interview preparation, helping you feel confident as you step into the job market.
What support is available for veterans?
We’ are proud to offer support to veterans and their families who are looking to further their education and employment prospects. We understand the unique challenges veterans may face as they transition into civilian life, and we’re here to help.
Supporting Families and Spouses of Veterans:
We are dedicated to supporting the families and spouses of veterans throughout their educational journey. Our commitment extends to providing comprehensive services designed to enhance their employability and facilitate access to various training courses. By meeting the eligibility criteria, they can benefit from the same resources and assistance that we offer to veterans, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities needed to succeed in their chosen fields.
- Educational Support: Access to a wide range of courses and qualifications, from basic skills like English and Maths to vocational training and professional development.
- Family-Focused Guidance: We understand that supporting a family member who has served in the military can bring unique challenges, and we are here to assist spouses and families in achieving their own career goals.
Contact us
Have a question? We may have an answer.
Meet the Team
Meet our team of dedicated professionals.
Gorana Armin
Education Co-Ordinator
Gorana is dedicated to positively impacting Gloucester’s communities. With over two years in the education sector, she focuses on helping learners achieve their goals. She has built extensive networks to connect learners with the right educational opportunities, guiding them to make informed choices aligned with their aspirations.