Skills Exchange Tameside: Training Courses in Partnership with Jigsaw Homes

In Autumn and Winter 2024 we ran 4 training courses in partnership with Jigsaw Homes, as part of our Local Exchange programme in Tameside. Reflecting our ambassador’s goal to empower local people. 

“[Visting the theatre] has inspired me. I want to get back into doing something I love doing, and all of these courses has kept me going through a few very difficult months. I now feel able to focus on myself and the future”  

“Being able to take small steps at my pace has been an important part of this. I can’t believe the difference since I started getting support from Jigsaw.  I can now go to the shops on my own, attend courses and even share my story with you! ”

Working with Tameside Women and Their Families Centre, we delivered 2 six-week programmes for women not currently in employment. Our Costume Design course developed sewing skills to mend clothes and create new looks, while learning about the process of costume design/making for the stage.  

While our Front of House training included shadowing the Visitor Experience Team at the theatre, supporting participants in gaining real work experience alongside the skills developed in sessions. The course was supported by Katy, one of our brilliant Visitor Experience Assistants and a graduate of the Front of House Training held in our first Local Exchange residency in 2019.  

“I found the course useful, as it took me out of my comfort zone.  As I got to know the other people on the course, it made me feel more comfortable speaking in a group.  That was a big achievement for me. I’m glad I did it.” 

“The Skills Exchange costume design course was great for me and gave me greater confidence in my sewing.  I am a crafter, but I wanted to learn more.  It also gave me the opportunity to get out of the house to socialise.” 

Alongside Jigsaw Homes we were also able to create 2 free courses for young people, not currently in education or employment. Hospitality Training gave young people a chance to develop their teamwork and customer service skills, gain a certificate in Food Hygiene, and gain hands-on experience practicing at the Eclectic Avenue Cafe in Ashton. Technical Theatre Training centred on technical and production skills used in the creative industries, where they got to design their own Sound & Lighting cues based on Spend, Spend, Spend.  

Congratulations to all 31 participants on completing their courses!