Students and staff from Newcastle College University Centre were invited to the House of Lords on Monday 9 December, to celebrate the launch of a landmark report into how further education colleges will contribute to the government’s five missions.
The report, developed by the Association of Colleges (AoC), highlights the groundbreaking and innovative work by colleges across the country on economic growth and productivity, net zero, community cohesion, access to education and training, and the NHS. It warns that without more investment, colleges will not be able to continue to meet the skills needs that are so vital to achieving the government’s missions.
Newcastle College is one of just ten colleges showcased in the report and the only North East college to feature. It is named a significant contributor to the government’s net zero mission to Make Britain a clean energy superpower to cut bills, create jobs and deliver security with cheaper, zero carbon electricity by 2030, accelerating to net zero.
The case study shows how Newcastle College delivers sector-leading training in green skills through its Energy Academy– vital to the renewable energy sector in the North East and beyond. Offering entry-level to Level 7 (degree level) qualifications, the Energy Academy partners with leading employers such as Equinor and Smulders to offer real-world experience and ensure training aligns with industry needs. Programmes cover wind, solar, and sustainable technologies, enabling learners to pursue careers in engineering, energy management, and other areas of discipline that contribute to the net zero agenda.
David Laycock, Faculty Director for Engineering, Built Environment and Transport at Newcastle College, who features in the video case study said: “We were delighted to contribute to the report and showcase the work we do in the region to equip our students with skills they need to work in the renewable energy sector and help transition the country towards net zero.
“We couldn’t do this without our industry partnerships which not only give students the chance to network and understand the industries they are hoping to work in, it also ensures our programmes are fit for purpose in a real-world context.”
Dylan Bingham, an Energy Engineering student at Newcastle College University Centre has already secured a scholarship at Dogger Bank Wind Farm. He attended the House of Lords celebration alongside fellow student Sonny Williamson, Head of Energy Academy Paul Turnbull and Director of Industrial Partnerships and Operations.
Dylan said: “I’ve always wanted to work in renewable energy because it’s the future. Net zero and reversing climate change feels like a big challenge, but to be part of the solution is amazing. What we’re learning about at Newcastle College has a real-world impact, and the technology we use at the Energy Academy simulates the real-world so we’re getting real industry-standard training here. Going to the House of Lords and talking about what we do was really special.”