POPULAR LCR SKILLS BOOTCAMP BACK ON OFFER WITH NEW GREEN EMPHASIS

Businesses across the Liverpool City Region involved in importing or exporting goods have another opportunity to enhance their workforce’s expertise through the Be More Skilled Skills Bootcamp initiative. Building on previous success, a newly expanded Skills Bootcamp in International Freight Forwarding is now available thanks to funding from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.

This updated programme is tailored to help businesses and their employees navigate the complexities of global trade. With a new, stronger emphasis on sustainability, it’s designed to address the needs of the regional logistics sector.

Green focus

To meet the evolving demands of the sector and align with the region’s environmental goals, this Skills Bootcamp has been extended from five to eight days. The enhanced programme now includes three new modules dedicated to sustainability. As the industry and the Liverpool City Region work towards a greener future, these skills are becoming increasingly important. Alongside developing skills and knowledge for freight forwarding, participants will learn how to create and implement effective carbon reduction plans, helping their organisations operate more sustainably and meet rising environmental standards.

Delivered by TRS, an award-winning skills agency, in partnership with the British International Freight Association (BIFA), this course offers a unique opportunity for professional freight forwarding development in the region.

Unmissable opportunity

This programme combines expert-led training and subsidised costs. Here’s why it’s an unmissable opportunity:

• Funded by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs with up to 250 employees) pay just 10% of the course fee (£300 + VAT per person), while larger employers contribute 30%. There is no cost to individual participants.
  
• BIFA partnership: The course includes training modules taught by BIFA, the UK’s leading trade association for freight forwarders. This ensures the content is up-to-date, relevant, and aligned with industry standards. Participants will complete two of BIFA’s flagship courses: Customs Essentials and Freight Forwarding Essentials.
  
• Flexible online format: Delivered online over eight weeks, with one session per week, the course is designed to minimise disruption to business operations while allowing employees to balance work and training.

Real-world benefits for businesses and employees

Avent Global Limited, a local logistics company, saw significant benefits when they enrolled their operations assistant, Sam Smith, on the original course earlier in 2025.

Jon Avent, the company’s CEO, shared how the training transformed Sam’s confidence and skills. “Sam really benefited from the Skills Bootcamp. His understanding of professional freight forwarding terminology has improved noticeably in his day-to-day work.”

For Sam, the experience was a turning point. It deepened his industry knowledge and inspired him to share what he’d learned with his team, multiplying the value of the training across the organisation. Since completing the course, Sam has been enrolled in a Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship to further his career.

This success story highlights how the Skills Bootcamp can help businesses foster a culture of learning and retain top talent. It also shows how the programme provides a clear pathway for individuals looking to advance in the freight forwarding sector.

What the course covers

The programme offers a comprehensive overview of international freight forwarding, with key modules including:

• Freight Forwarding Essentials: Learn the core principles and practices of the industry.
• Customs Essentials: Gain practical insights into navigating complex customs regulations.
• Sustainability in Logistics: Understand how to measure carbon footprints and develop greener supply chain strategies.
• Dangerous & Hazardous Goods: Learn the protocols for safely handling and shipping specialised cargo.
• Customer Relationship Management: Build stronger client relationships and enhance service standards.

Who can apply?

This funded training is open to individuals aged 19 or over who live or work in the Liverpool City Region. It’s ideal for employees in freight forwarding roles who want to build their skills or those you’d like to develop into such positions. It’s also an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to enter or advance in this dynamic industry.

Act fast – limited places available

Courses begin in October and November, and places will fill quickly due to high demand. Enrolment is on a first-come, first-served basis, so businesses and individuals are encouraged to act promptly.

Don’t miss this chance to equip your team with industry-leading skills, improve operational efficiency, and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.

For more information or to enrol, please enquire via the TRS website, email [email protected], or call 01744 809 010.