No tricks, just treats Portsmouth University offers businesses budget analysis & digital skills courses
In this October edition of Business Talk, Becky Miles from the University reminds us that the only thing to be truly frightened of this Halloween is missing out on some fantastic opportunities from your local University.
The Autumn Budget: No need to be haunted by uncertainty
She writes: Budgets and economic forecasts might sound scary enough on their own – but this Halloween, we’re promising frights of a different kind. The UK is at a crossroads, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves warning that tough (and possibly hair-raising) decisions lie ahead. Their Autumn budget will reveal how the government plans to steer the country through stormy waters toward long-term growth.
So, what’s lurking in the shadows of the UK economy?
Professor Stephen Millard, Director of the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR), will be on hand at the University of Portsmouth to shed light on what the October budget really means. Think of him as your guide through the economic haunted house – breaking down the government’s plans in plain English, without any jump scares.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Graham Galbraith will kick off the evening with a warm welcome before handing over to Professor Millard, who has the rare talent of turning complex numbers into something we can all understand – and even enjoy. He will unpack the UK’s economic outlook and zoom in on the South-East, so you’ll leave knowing not just what’s happening nationally, but how it affects local businesses, jobs, and investment opportunities.
For business leaders, this is your chance to take the mystery out of the markets and turn policy into practical insights. Whether you’re planning to invest, expand, hire, or hold steady, you’ll gain expert guidance on what the months ahead might look like – no crystal ball required.
Book now: Secure your place through Eventbrite here
Banish career fears – learn new skills in 12 weeks
Looking to banish career fears and rise from the grave of outdated skills? our skills bootcamps are free, flexible training programmes designed to give you the in-demand expertise that local employers are actively hunting for.
Whether you want to retrain, upskill, or take your career in a completely new (and slightly spooky) direction, our 12-week part-time courses offer hands-on experience that will boost your confidence and future-proof your career. no tricks – just the treat of a stronger cv and new opportunities.
We’ve partnered with Solent Growth Partnership to conjure up two specialist skills bootcamps:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Unmask the mystery of AI! Learn how to deploy machine learning, discover what AI can really do, and apply its magic to real-world challenges in business, tech, healthcare, and more.
Software Development – Code your way out of the crypt and into a future-proof career. Gain practical skills in web development, programming, data handling, and agile project delivery – no cauldron required.
Applications close this month – don’t let this opportunity vanish!
If you’re ready to turn fear into future opportunities, join us this season and take control of your career. Find out more here
Banish career fears – learn new skills in 12 weeks