Green skills celebrated at House of Lords event

Two Newcastle College University Centre students were invited to the House of Lords to celebrate the launch of a landmark report on the role of further education in “making Britain a clean energy superpower” and helping meet the country’s net-zero targets.

The Association of Colleges (AoC) report highlights the innovative contributions of colleges to achieving net-zero ambitions, economic growth, NHS support and access to education, while warning that continued investment is critical to sustaining these efforts.

David Hughes, chief executive of the AoC, said: “This report gives great examples of what they already do on each mission, but the risk is that after a decade of neglect, colleges cannot step up without change; change in the system, rules and regulation and most importantly a step-change in investment.”

Newcastle College was one of ten colleges showcased in the report and the only North East institution to be featured, being lauded for its pioneering green skills training.

The college, which offers entry-level to Level 7 (degree level) qualifications, collaborates with employers such as Equinor and Smulders to align its renewable energy programmes with industry needs. Students benefit from real-world experience and pathways to careers in wind, solar and sustainable technologies.

David Laycock, faculty director for engineering, built environment and transport at Newcastle College, added: “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.”

Energy engineering student Dylan Bingham, who has secured a scholarship at Dogger Bank Wind Farm, joined fellow student Sonny Williamson at the House of Lords.

He 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.”

To read the AoC's report, see here.

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