FIRST Thoughts…

WORKING WITH OTHERS

This month, we’re shining a light on the power of collaboration – because when we work together, we go further. From building stronger partnerships to learning alongside others and sharing ideas, collaboration sits at the heart of meaningful progress.

At FIRST, working with others is woven into everything we do, whether it’s peer to peer learning in our courses or the partnerships that help learners take their next step with courage and support.

Read some examples of communities working together:

FIRST X Inner Beauty Queens 

FIRST X Business Enterprise Fund 

What we got up to in May:

NETWORKING IN THE NORTH EAST

In May, we attended events including the Sunderland Jobs Fair and Reed’s Activity Day, meeting people at all stages of their journey. We shared how our free, accredited enterprise courses can support those looking to build courage, switch careers or start a business.

If you didn’t get a chance to meet us but would like to receive further information: click here 

THE NORTH EAST EXPO

On the 8th May, we had a brilliant day exhibiting at the North East Expo at Gosforth Racecourse. With our stand set up and the team on hand, it was a great chance to reconnect with past and current partners - and to meet plenty of potential new ones. The event was full of energy and inspiring conversations, centred around the work we do at FIRST to help people take their next step into business, work or further learning.

PRE-RECORDED BUSINESS COURSES

Our new Taster and Advanced pre-recorded business courses have proven popular with both new and returning learners, offering flexible, accessible ways to build enterprise skills at a pace that works for them.

This is what some of our learners have said so far:

⭐“I loved being able to fit the course around my routine, it gave me the confidence to start exploring my business idea again.”
⭐“The advanced course helped me build on what I’d already learned. It felt like a natural 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 favourite with learners who want to grow their courage and take clear steps towards starting a business or finding work.

Here’s what our learners are saying:

⭐“Before this course, I didn’t think I had what it takes to run a business. Now I feel ready to give it a go.”
⭐“Level 2 really helped me understand what it takes to grow a business. I’m already putting it into practice!”

With hands-on support and real-world learning, these courses are helping people across the North East to take their next step.

Click here to read some more learner feedback

For more information click here 

Making Connections, Creating Impact

WORKING TOGETHER TO WIDEN ENTERPRISE ACCESS

This month, we’ve kickstarted conversations with key regional partners to explore how we can collectively strengthen enterprise education across the North East.

At the BIC, we discussed opportunities to grow our impact in Gateshead. With The King’s Trust, we explored new ways to support young people taking their first steps into enterprise. We also connected with the Rural Design Centre to look at how place based partnerships can help raise awareness of enterprise in rural communities.

These early conversations reflect our commitment to collaboration working alongside others to ensure more people, in more places, have access to meaningful enterprise opportunities.

Interested in our courses or partnership opportunities? Contact us here

June’s Plans:

ENTERPRISE WORKSHOPS AT GATESHEAD COLLEGE

In partnership with Enterprising North, we’ll be delivering enterprise workshops throughout June at Gateshead College. These include sessions built into existing courses - such as hair and beauty, health and social care, and creative studies, as well as open workshops for any student interested in enterprise.

We’ll also continue offering regular one to one advice through our on-site enterprise table, helping students explore self-employment and take their next step with confidence.

JUNE’S FREE, ACCREDITED BUSINESS COURSES

This June, FIRST is offering two brilliant opportunities 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 10th June 2025
💻 Delivered online
Perfect for those starting out, this course helps you explore business basics in a supportive and welcoming space.

Level 2 Business Course
📅 Starts 5th June 2025
📍 In person (Gateshead) and online
Ready to take things further? This practical course is designed to strengthen your business know-how, from finding your audience to building a brand with purpose.

Both courses are free, accredited and packed with tools to help you grow with courage and clarity.

👉 Click here to register or find out more