Learners from our Tameside Skills Centre helped transform the local Crazy Golf Course

Young people from the Growth Company Tameside Skills Centre have taken centre stage in a project to refurbish and upgrade a local crazy golf course, gaining hands-on construction and teamwork experience along the way.

The project was part of a Programme delivered over the summer by the Growth Company in partnership with Tameside Futures, which supports young people in the borough, particularly those at risk of disengaging from education or employment. The programme offered tasters in Construction, Health and Social Care and Customer Services, with 11 participants focusing on construction skills.

Throughout August, participants worked with Growth Company tutors to refurbish the holes, design and manufacture new obstacles, and install them in the park. Support from the parks and café teams, led by Kevin and Trish, was key to the project’s success.

The crazy golf course was officially opened by Councillor Leanne Feeley, Executive Member (Lifelong Learning and Culture), on Wednesday 10 September, marking the completion of the project and celebrating the achievements of the young people involved.

Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, Cllr Leanne Feeley said: “It is fantastic to see such a brilliant activity open up in one of our local parks that is open to not only families but young people and anyone that would like to have a bit of fun.

“I’d like to take the time to thank the young people who were involved in refurbishing the course and creating obstacles, it looks great!”

Richard Morris, Project Manager for Employment and Skills (Children’s Services) at Tameside Futures, said:
"At Tameside Futures, we are overjoyed that young people in Tameside have engaged so enthusiastically with this programme. Their hard work will not only benefit local residents but also help bring families and communities closer together."

Jill Hudson, Skills Centre Manager, added:
"It has been fantastic working with Tameside Futures on this exciting programme. We are delighted that many of the young people involved will now be continuing their studies with us at the Tameside Skills Centre."

This initiative not only helped the young people maintain a structured routine over the summer but also equipped them with skills and confidence to progress into college or future employment.

The crazy golf course is now open to the public, with a small hire charge of £3 for putters and balls.