Redruth’s modern archive centre, Kresen Kernow, is offering free short courses in digital and work skills.
The Work Skills @ Kresen Kernow project will help people gain digital, workplace and heritage skills which can be used to help people get into employment and training. It’s funded by the European Social Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The unique courses will give participants access to Kresen Kernow’s archive and library collection of 1.5 million items, dating back 850 years. The project aims to use local and family history sources to help participants gain insight into the heritage sector in Cornwall.
The courses are open to most people over 18, living within a 15-mile radius of Kresen Kernow. To take part, participants should be looking to get back into work, education or training. The groups will be small and fully supported and are open to a range of education levels.
Requests for help with childcare and individual learning support can also be supported. In most cases travel costs can also be covered, depending on location.
Cllr Stephen Rushworth, Cornwall Council portfolio holder for Economy said: “This is a great way to learn new digital skills that are vital for our economy. Cornwall has such a rich and fascinating history and to be able to use our archives to upskill people, which in turn will be a boost to our workforce, is so innovative.”
Iain Rowe, ESF Project Officer for Kresen Kernow said: “This is a great opportunity for residents looking to develop their skills. Digital skills are more important than ever in the workplace, and we want to support people on their journey into the modern work force.
“We hold some amazing records people can access here. For example, did you know that the planet Neptune was discovered by Cornishman John Couch Adams? We hold the letters he sent home to his parents as well as his mathematical calculations here. We also hold the Bodmin Gaol registers which not only log the crimes committed and punishment given out in early Victorian Cornwall, but also intricate details of those children, women and men who were committed to the Gaol for them.
“There will be no exams, giving participants the freedom to explore and learn, working towards their own goals.”
Courses will be run in small sessions, with start dates throughout the year until March 2023. Anyone interested should get in touch by phone on 01209 614430, emailing kresenkernow@cornwall.gov.uk or by visiting the team at Kresen Kernow.