Theme: Creativity
CREATIVITY IN MOTION
This month, we’re celebrating the power of creativity – not just as a skill, but as a mindset that fuels innovation, resilience and connection. Whether in business or everyday life, creativity helps us to imagine new possibilities and solve problems in fresh ways.
At FIRST, creativity shows up in every course we deliver, every learner journey we support, and every dream or aspiration that becomes a reality.
MEET THE FIRST FELINE
Say Hello to our new mascot – the FIRST Feline! With a curious spirit and a creative streak, this character will be popping up across our socials, bringing energy and personality to everything from course announcements to behind-the-scenes moments.
The FIRST Feline represents the boldness and imagination we see in our learners every day – always exploring, always growing. Keep an eye out – you’ll be seeing a lot more of them!
Soon, we’ll be asking you to help us choose a name for our new feline friend. Get your ideas ready – we can’t wait to see what you come up with!
NEW COURSES RELEASED
BUSINESS TASTER COURSE
We’re excited to introduce our brand new Business TASTER course – a pre-Level 1 course designed to explore the fundamentals of business in a simple, welcoming way.
Whether you're curious about starting something of your own or just want to see what enterprise skills are all about, this short taster helps you build courage and take that FIRST step.
It’s practical, local and all about helping you explore what’s possible.
Benefits:
⏰ Learn in your own time with our pre-recorded workshops
⭐ Explore if self-employment could be right for you
🤝 1:1 support from the team to follow up your action plan
📜 Certification from FIRST
🧭 Guidance with your next steps
💵 Free
📍 Only available through FIRST
⭐ Sign up here
NEW EXCLUSIVE, ADVANCED BUSINESS COURSE
We’re excited to launch our Advanced Business Course – designed for learners who are ready to build on what they’ve already started. Whether you’ve completed Level 2 or finished Level 1 but can’t commit to the full Level 2, this flexible course offers the perfect next step to deepen your business skills and courage.
Benefits:
⏰ Learn at your own pace with pre-recorded workshops
📊 Dive into real business topics like marketing, strategy, A.I. and resilience
🛠️ Gain practical tools you can use straight away
⭐ Connect with established North East Entrepreneurs, sharing authentic personal experiences
💬 Develop your commercial awareness to take your next bold step
📍 Only available through FIRST for current learners and alumni
Find out more about our level 2 course here
LEVEL 1 AND 2 BUSINESS COURSES
During the launch of the new courses, our established level 1 and 2 business courses are still in full swing.
What our learners have to say:
⭐ “The course has offered excellent support, with clear guidance, practical resources, and well-structured content. It’s helped me build confidence, develop essential skills, and stay focused on my goals.”
⭐ “I tell everyone I meet about your courses.”
Check out more learner feedback here
COMMUNITY COURSES FOR REFUGEES
April saw the final session of a bespoke Level 1 Business course delivered in partnership with West End Refugee Service (WERS) – and it’s been a truly inspiring journey.
Over several weeks, learners explored core business skills, built courage, and developed their entrepreneurial potential in a supportive and inclusive space tailored to their needs.
A huge well done to everyone who took part – your creativity, resilience and enthusiasm were outstanding. We're excited to see where your journey leads next.
Interested in our courses or partnership opportunities? Contact us here
📅 Date: 15th May 2025
📍 Location: Online (Zoom)
⏰ Time: 10:00am – 11:30am
In a constantly changing economic landscape, enterprise skills and entrepreneurship are getting a lot of attention. But how do we measure their true impact on individuals and the wider economy? And is it worth it?
Join us for an interactive online event that brings together expert voices from across the enterprise education sector. We’ll explore the challenges and future of measuring impact in enterprise skills and entrepreneurship education.
You’ll hear from:
Sanjee Ratnatunga – CEO of Ideas for Change Consulting
Charlotte Windebank – MD of FIRST
Leigh Sear – CEO of SFEDI
Expect case studies, live discussions, and actionable insights as we unpack:
✅ Why measuring impact matters
✅ What challenges we face
✅ What needs to change going forward
Grab your tickets here
MAY’S FREE, ACCREDITED BUSINESS COURSES
This May, 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 6th May
💻 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 6th May
📍 In person
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
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