FIRST Thoughts…

VISION

This month, we’re focusing on vision - the ability to see beyond the now and imagine what’s possible. With summer on the horizon and many of our courses approaching a natural pause, it’s the perfect time to look ahead, set goals and take action.

Starting a course, meeting like-minded people or taking the first steps towards your own business, it all begins with a clear vision. It’s vision that fuels ambition and turns ideas into action.

At FIRST, we’re proud to support learners who are shaping their own futures - developing skills and building networks that bring their goals into focus.

In this edition, we celebrate the journeys of those with the courage to dream big and take real steps forward.

What we got up to in June:

NETWORKING IN THE NORTH EAST

In June, we hit the road to share our message about free, accredited enterprise learning, visiting several Job Centres across the North East - including Blyth, the Beacon Centre, and North Tyneside Youth Hub. We also had the opportunity to host a stall at the St James’ Job Fair and took part in Refugee Week, connecting with people from a wide range of backgrounds.

At every event, we shared how our courses can help you build courage, switch careers or start your own business. We’re passionate about showing people what’s possible and opening doors to new opportunities.

If you didn’t get a chance to meet us but would like to find out more about how we can support you click here

UK STARTUP & SCALEUP WEEK

Last month, we had the pleasure of attending the UK Startup & Scaleup Week in Sunderland. It was an inspiring five days packed with innovative ideas, practical advice, and invaluable networking opportunities. We were thrilled to see our very own Managing Director of FIRST, Charlotte Windebank, take to the stage on Thursday to share her insights on growth and scaling.

A huge thank you to Paul Lancaster for bringing together such an engaging and supportive event - a brilliant opportunity for entrepreneurs and changemakers to connect and take their next steps.

BUSINESS COURSES IN YOUR OWN TIME

Our Taster and Advanced pre-recorded business courses continue to be a hit with both new and returning learners. These flexible courses give you the freedom to build enterprise skills at your own pace, fitting your learning around your day-to-day routine.

Here’s what some of our learners have shared:

⭐ “Being able to work through the course in my own time really helped me take the first step and start my journey.”
⭐ “The advanced course gave me practical tools and ideas I can put into practice straight away. It’s a great next step from the Level 2 course.”

To find out more about our pre recorded courses click here

ONLINE / IN PERSON BUSINESS COURSES

Our Level 1 and 2 Business courses continue to be a popular choice for learners who want to grow and take meaningful steps towards launching a business or finding work.

Here’s what our learners have shared:

⭐ “The course made me realise I have something to offer – I feel ready to explore my own business idea.”
⭐ “Level 2 gave me the tools and focus to move forward. I’ve already started applying what I learned.”

With practical learning and supportive guidance, these courses are helping people across the North East find their next steps.

Click here to read some more learner feedback

For more information click here

Life in Motion

JO PLUMB: FROM CHALLENGE TO CREATIVITY

Finding Inspiration in the North East

Jo Plumb’s paintings speak to the heart of the North East - shimmering acrylic landscapes of light streams and rugged coasts, each canvas a personal homage to the region she’s called home for over a decade. Though she’s not a native Geordie, Jo’s deep connection to Newcastle stretches back to visits with her sister when she was a teenager and has grown ever since.

Despite earning a photography and a keen interest in painting, Jo found the doors to an arts career firmly closed after university. “I always thought about painting professionally,” she recalls, “but I never knew where to start.”

Discovering Self-Employment

That changed in 2023, when she attended a job fair at St James’ Park and was stopped in her tracks by a simple question from one of the team at FIRST: “Have you ever thought about self-employment?” That spark led Jo to complete the Level 1 Business course, planting the seeds of possibility even as she took up paid work elsewhere.

Yet life took an unexpected turn when Jo was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a stark reminder of how precious time is, and Jo decided it was time to stop dreaming and start doing. She enrolled in the Level 2 Business course at FIRST, determined to turn her passion into a business.

Click here to read the rest of the Jo’s story…

July's Plans:

GET BUSINESS READY IN GATESHEAD WITH ENTERPRISING NORTH

Thinking about starting a business? Not sure what your next steps are? We’re bringing free, friendly business advice right into the heart of Gateshead’s communities, making it easier than ever to access the support you need.

From 11th July, you’ll find us every Friday between 9am - 3pm at The Bank, Chopwell. Whether you’re just interested in developing your business skills or you're already trading, we’re here to help you move forward with courage.

We’ll also be at Winlaton Community Centre on the 10th July, and then on the first Thursday of every month from 11am - 2pm. No need to book, just drop in for a cuppa and a chat with our experienced team.

We’re here to help you:

• Explore your strengths and passions

• Understand what support is available locally

• Gain courage in your next steps

• Connect with the right people and opportunities

Just getting started or exploring your options? We will signpost you to the right support to suit your needs and help you and your business dreams flourish!

These sessions are completely free and open to anyone in the local area.

Come say hello and find out how FIRST can support your business goals - right where you are.

FIRST SUMMER SOCIAL  - HOSTED BY STARTUP AWARDS NORTH EAST

Join us for a Summer Networking Event hosted by Startup Awards North East 2025! Supported by Business Enterprise Fund, this free event is open to anyone looking to make new connections, share ideas, and be part of the thriving North East startup community.

📅 Date: 17th July 2025
🕠 Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm
📍 Venue: Former Lloyds Bank, 15 West Street, Gateshead, NE8 1DP

Expect an evening of inspirational conversations, informal networking and plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded individuals passionate about enterprise and entrepreneurship.

Drinks and food will be provided - so come hungry for connection and community.

Whether you're a founder, freelancer, supporter or curious, this summer social promises to be a warm and welcoming space to grow your network.

✨ Grab your ticket here

JULY’S FREE, ACCREDITED BUSINESS COURSES

This July, FIRST is offering a brilliant opportunity to build your enterprise skills and explore what’s next - all with accredited, practical learning designed to fit around you.

Level 1 Business Course
📅 Starts 29th July 2025
💻 Delivered online

Perfect for those starting out, this course helps you explore business basics in a supportive and welcoming space.

👉 Click here to register or find out more

SEPTEMBER’S FREE, ACCREDITED BUSINESS COURSES

Level 1 Business Course
📅 Starts 23rd September 2025
💻 Delivered online

Ideal for beginners, this course offers a relaxed and encouraging environment to learn the fundamentals of business.

Level 2 Business Course
📅 Starts 25rd September 2025
💻 Delivered in person (Gateshead)

📅 Starts 30th September 2025
💻 Delivered in person (Gateshead) / online (hybrid model)

Looking to build on what you’ve started? This hands-on course deepens your understanding of business essentials - from identifying your customers to creating a brand that makes an impact.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Don’t just take our word for it - here’s what one of our partners had to say:

"The workshops were engaging and interactive, helping students develop viable business concepts and apply enterprise skills in a practical context."

-Angelou Centre

DEADLINE FOR STARTUP AWARDS NORTH EAST 2025 APPLICATION

– Your journey, your moment! 🏆

Thinking about starting a business? Already running one? Looking to grow? Startup Awards North East, supported by Business Enterprise Fund, is here to celebrate YOU and help you take your next big step! 🎉

APPLICATIONS CLOSE ON THE 4TH JULY

By entering, you'll get the chance to:
✨ Be recognised for your hard work and ambition
📣 Pitch live in front of key business leaders and industry experts
🤝 Connect with powerful partners who can help you grow
🎁 Win incredible prizes to support your business journey

With three categories, there’s a place for every entrepreneur:
✅ SkillUP – Have a great idea but haven’t started yet? This is your opportunity to take that first step with courage!
✅ StartUP – Started trading in the last few years? Let’s celebrate your journey and help you move forward!
✅ ScaleUP – Been trading less than four years and turning over £15K+? Get in front of partners who can help you accelerate your growth!

📢 Event Details:
📅 Thursday 16th October 2025
⏰ 10:00am - 4:30pm
📍 The Fed, Lancaster Rd, Dunston, Gateshead NE11 9JR

🌟 Don’t miss this chance to shine and connect with the right people who can take your business further!

Click here to enter