Source: City of Portsmouth
Portsmouth City Council’s Employment, Learning and Skills (ELS) service has been accredited to the matrix Standard, demonstrating the high quality of their employment programmes, careers service and Community Learning Service they provide to Portsmouth’s residents.
Recent achievements that contributed to the matrix Standard include above 90% achievement record for the Community Learning Service, exceptional person-centred approach, and exceeding targets on the employment programmes.
The matrix Standard is the international quality standard for organisations that deliver information, advice, and guidance as part of their service.
Carol, a learner at the Community Learning Service who has completed courses in health and wellbeing, digital skills and is currently studying maths level2 through the Multiply programme said:
“The Community Learning staff are all amazing. They’re very professional and here to help. You’re not a stranger, even the first time you walk through the door.
If you’re feeling low, they support you. I’m so much more confident now”
Roger Chapman, Head of the matrix Service for The Growth Company said:
“This is a fantastic achievement for Portsmouth City Council’s Employment Learning and Skills team, and I would like to congratulate the team on their success. We believe that at the heart of high-quality advice and support services are strong leadership, excellent service, and a focus on continuous improvement, all underpinned by effective use of the resources available. The matrix Standard is designed to benchmark organisations against best practice in these areas. With their accreditation success, Portsmouth City Council is working to provide the best possible support to their residents.”
Cllr. Steve Pitt, Leader of the council with responsibilities for economic development said:
“It is with pleasure and gratitude that we acknowledge the achievement of our Employment, Learning and Skills service in being accredited to the matrix Standard. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the exceptional quality of our careers service, employment programmes and Community Learning Service, which continue to empower our residents and drive positive change within our community.
This recognition is more than just a badge of honour; it reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening our local economy by improving education outcomes for our residents. Education and skills development are at the heart of a thriving economy, and by continuously striving to develop our services, we pave the way for a brighter future for all.”
The ELS service offers a range of information, advice and guidance services to residents which include tailored programmes to find work for those who face physical and mental health barriers, are economically inactive and for those with addiction issues. The team also work with the National Careers Service to support with career guidance and CV writing. The council’s Community Learning Service, based at The Learning Place in North End offers training in IT, learning English and maths, family learning plus courses to improve health and well-being.