Institute of Technology launches in the North East

The North East Institute of Technology has been launched to deliver higher level advanced manufacturing and engineering and construction and built environment technical training to students and apprentices across the region.

Sunderland College will work alongside East Durham College, Middlesbrough College, Tyne Coast College and NA College Trust in a partnership led by New College Durham. The North East Institute of Technology is only one of 12 in the country.

The technical courses and Apprenticeships delivered by the further education providers supporting the Institute will provide a natural progression route for young people and adults into higher level study and technical employment.

Sunderland College’s Washington Campus will be transformed with the construction of purpose-built learning spaces and workshops featuring state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. The exceptional advanced manufacturing and construction facilities at City Campus will also be enhanced, to give employers the skilled workforce they need.

Associate principal for Technical, Warick Stephenson, said: “We are proud to support the new North East Institute of Technology. It is a fantastic initiative which will complement our current courses and programmes while strengthening our links with North East industry.

“The amazing industry standard facilities and equipment on offer through the Institute will be an invaluable resource in providing our students and Apprentices with the specialist skills and knowledge to build a successful career.”

John Widdowson, principal and chief executive of New College Durham, said: “Confirmation of Institute of Technology status is a great boost for New College Durham and the North East.

“We are delighted to be working in collaboration with our partners to design and deliver top quality courses and qualifications that meet the needs of industry in our region, both now and in the future.”

The Institute will also benefit from additional support from local employers and partners, who will contribute valuable resources such as further investment, seconded teaching staff and equipment.

Ian Green Senior Controller/Section Manager at Nissan, commented: “Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK is pleased to be a leading partner in an initiative which will not only help to provide higher level skills for manufacturing companies, but also to inspire people of all ages to invest in their own skills and knowledge.

“The Institute of Technology will be at the heart of a new skills revolution in the North East.”

Andy Radcliffe, Esh Group’s Chief Executive, said: “Esh Group is proud to be part of this unique collaboration which brings together further education and some of the region’s leading employers to give our young people the skills they need to succeed and set them on a clear path to high skilled, highly paid employment.

“As the construction business lead, we look forward to passing on our industry knowledge, our own cultural values and help shape the curriculum for the workforce of tomorrow.”

The Institute of Technology will work hand in hand with the new T Level qualifications introduced from September 2020; which are the technical equivalent to A Level.