Accrington and Rossendale College is set to transform construction training through a £3.3 million investment, made possible by £2.6 million of Government fundingalongside investment from East Lancashire Learning Group. The project will create outstanding new facilities that will help more local people prepare for careers in the construction industry.
The investment, awarded through the Department for Education’s Construction Skills Capacity Fund, will create industry-standard learning environments that will enable many more local people to develop the practical skills employers need.
The project will deliver a brand-new multi-skills construction training zone together with expanded workshops for plumbing, electrical installation, site joinery, carpentry and bench joinery. Existing facilities will also be redesigned to provide larger, more flexible teaching spaces that reflect modern construction practices.
Designed alongside more than ten construction employers, the project will ensure learners benefit from training that reflects the realities of today’s workplace. Employer partners are contributing equipment, expertise, funding and opportunities that will help learners progress into apprenticeships, employment and further study.
Lisa O’Loughlin CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of East Lancashire Learning Group, said:
“This investment will create even more opportunities for local people to develop the skills, experience and confidence they need to succeed in construction careers.
“By investing in outstanding facilities and working closely with employers, we’re ensuring our learners are equipped for the jobs our region needs both now and in the future.”
Construction remains one of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors, with demand continuing to increase for skilled workers across housebuilding, infrastructure and green technologies. This investment will help address those workforce challenges while creating more opportunities for people across East Lancashire.
As part of East Lancashire Learning Group, Accrington and Rossendale College is committed to investing in outstanding learning environments that prepare learners for successful careers and help employers access the skilled workforce they need. This latest project builds on more than £32 million invested by the Group in its campuses over the past five years, ensuring learners continue to benefit from outstanding facilities that reflect the needs of modern industry.
