The Bristol Skills Accelerator (BSA) is designed for students who want to take what they’ve learned in their degree and apply it in a professional environment.
It’s a flexible programme that fits around your timetable, helping you build your confidence and professional experience before you start applying for graduate roles.
Build skills that employers value
There are four online training modules at the core of the programme, which you can complete at your own pace, from campus or home. These modules introduce key business and professional skills, including:
- Managing innovation
- Business models
- Leadership
- Teamwork
Once all four modules are completed, the Careers Service team will review your progress and award you a certificate, as recognition of your commitment to developing your employability skills.
Turning learning into action: real projects with real organisations
What sets the Bristol Skills Accelerator apart is the opportunity to put these skills into practice.
After completing the training, students can apply for a project placement, where small businesses and charities are matched with interdisciplinary teams of students. These projects focus on innovative, real-world challenges and require a 70-hour commitment over four flexible weeks.
One recent project demonstrates the impact students can make
A team of students worked with Streams Learning Hub on a project focused on accessibility, education and emerging technology. Their challenge was to create a practical guide to help homeschooled and neurodivergent teenagers use AI effectively in their learning.
Rather than making assumptions, the team began by interviewing learners directly to understand their experiences, concerns and existing use of AI tools. They then tested a range of AI platforms themselves, assessing which tools would be most appropriate and accessible for the target age group.
By combining research, user feedback and hands-on experimentation, the team produced a guide that was:
- Informative but easy to read
- Tailored to neurodivergent learners
- Relevant to both education and life beyond school
The final guide also expanded beyond learning, including sections on career development, such as CV support and interview preparation, as well as using AI for hobby enrichment – ideas that only emerged through listening closely to the learners.
Why Bristol Skills Accelerator?
Previous participants consistently highlight the value of the programme:
“If you are interested in research, working in a team, or the early stages of building a business idea, this is a valuable opportunity.”
“This programme is a great opportunity to find your strengths and weaknesses when you are working.”
Whether you’re exploring career options, building confidence, or looking for practical experience alongside your degree, BSA offers a supportive and flexible way to grow.
How to get involved
- Register on the Bristol Skills Accelerator training Pathway
- Attend an Introductory Talk (last Spring term talk: Tuesday 10 March 2026)
- Complete your training by Friday 10 April 2026 to be eligible to apply for the next project round in June