East Lancashire Learning Group (ELLG) is investing £3.3 million to transform construction training at Accrington and Rossendale College, made possible through £2.6 million of Government fundingalongside the Group’s own investment. The project will create outstanding new facilities that will help more people develop the skills needed for careers in one of the UK’s fastest-growing industries.
The investment, awarded through the Department for Education’s Construction Skills Capacity Fund, will transform construction training by creating industry-standard learning environments and significantly increasing the number of young people and adults who can train for careers in the sector.
The project includes the creation of a new multi-skills construction training zone alongside expanded specialist workshops for plumbing, electrical installation, site joinery, carpentry and bench joinery. Existing teaching spaces will also be reconfigured to better reflect modern construction methods and the needs of today’s employers.
Developed in partnership with more than ten construction employers, the project has been shaped by industry to ensure learners gain the skills, experience and practical knowledge employers are looking for. Employer partners are supporting the development through investment, specialist equipment, industry expertise and opportunities for learners.
Lisa O’Loughlin CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of East Lancashire Learning Group, said:
“This is a transformational investment, not only for our college but for the communities and employers we serve.
“Construction is one of the region’s fastest-growing sectors, yet employers continue to face significant skills shortages. This funding will allow us to train many more people in industry-standard facilities that reflect the realities of today’s workplace.
“By working hand in hand with employers, we’re ensuring our learners develop the skills, experience and confidence they need to progress into apprenticeships, higher education and highly skilled careers, while helping businesses access the workforce they need to grow.”
The investment supports priorities identified in the Lancashire Local Skills Improvement Plan and forms part of the Government’s wider ambitions to build more homes, deliver major infrastructure projects and expand high-quality technical education.
The project also forms part of East Lancashire Learning Group’s wider commitment to investing in exceptional learning environments and working closely with employers to ensure education continues to meet the needs of industry and the regional economy. Over the past five years, the Group has invested more than £32 million in improving its campuses, creating industry-standard facilities that give learners the skills, experience and opportunities to succeed in modern careers.
