Cooking Up More Potential with the Multiply Programme

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A group of people standing wth boxes containing air fryers and slow cookers, with a banner for Multiply

Participants who completed the latest Multiply programme received their certificates and a free airfryer or slow cooker at the final class of their course on Wednesday 23rd October at Lurgan’s Jethro Centre.

Multiply is an innovative training programme designed to empower individuals who have not yet achieved a GCSE Maths Grade C or above. This course particularly focuses on those for whom English is not a first language, providing tailored support to enhance their mathematical skills and confidence.

Organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, and delivered by People 1st, the course saw 16 participants complete the course which aimed to break down barriers to learning by offering accessible and engaging maths training in a supportive environment. This course also focused on cookery, teaching budgeting skills as well as some healthy recipes.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy said:

“Maths is a critical skill that opens doors to further education and better job opportunities. Through the various Multiply programmes, the council aims to create a supportive pathway for those who may have faced challenges in the past, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”

One participant, commented: “I’m happy to be here together and have something like this in my life. It was just what we needed, speaking English, and learning, all to have a better life.”

This project was funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This is part of a £5.9m Multiply fund being managed by the Department for the Economy in the north of Ireland.

As only one part of the Council’s Multiply programme, there has been several successful family fun days so far as well as ongoing courses on business finances, preparing for retirement and another budget friendly cookery course. To find out more about the programme, visit: www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/multiply