Employment and Skills Team wins industry recognition at Textile Centre of Excellence Golden Jubilee 

Employment and Skills Team with their award at the event

Our Employment and Skills Team has received special recognition at the Textile Centre of Excellence’s 50th Anniversary Golden Jubilee celebrations. 

The team was presented with a 50th Anniversary Special Industry Award in recognition of its outstanding contribution to skills development, employer engagement and inclusive growth across the region. 

The award highlighted the team’s success in connecting local people with meaningful employment opportunities and supporting employers through innovative skills programmes and development initiatives. 

A special mention was given to Nadine Littlewood, our Strategic Partnership Lead, for her leadership and impact on manufacturing Skills Bootcamps, which have become recognised across West Yorkshire as a strong example of effective local delivery. 

The event celebrated the rich heritage and future of the textile industry, bringing together employers, apprentices, learners and industry leaders from across the sector. 

The Employment and Skills Team continues to support residents and businesses across Kirklees by helping people overcome barriers to employment, access training and develop career pathways. The team also works with local businesses on recruitment, workforce planning and skills development. 

The recognition is a testament to the dedication, partnership working and long-term commitment of the whole team in supporting both residents and industry across the borough.

Nadine Littlewood Strategic Partnership Lead for Kirklees Council said: 

“It was an honour to accept this award on behalf of the wider Employment and Skills Team. The textile industry has deep roots across our communities and continues to play an important role in our local economy. We are incredibly proud to support learners, businesses and employers through initiatives such as Skills Bootcamps and to help create opportunities for people across Kirklees.” 
 

David Shepherd, Executive Director for Place said:

“This award is a fantastic recognition of the dedication and hard work of our Employment and Skills Team and the strong partnerships they have built with employers across the region. Their commitment to championing local talent, supporting businesses and creating opportunities for residents is making a real difference in communities across Kirklees. I would like to congratulate everyone involved on this well-deserved achievement and thank them for their hard work.” 

Visit our website to find out more about how our Employment and Skills Team could support you.