North East mayor Kim McGuinness, centre, with, from left to right, Jon Ridley, of Newcastle College; Shaun Hope, of Bishop Auckland College; Ellen Thinnesen, of Education Partnership North East; David Alexander, of Gateshead College ; Andy Broadbent, of New College Durham; Toni Rhodes, of Education Partnership North East; Scott Bullock, of East Durham College; Chris Todd, of Derwentside College; Alison Maynard, of New College Durham; and David Gardner, of Tyne Coast College

Colleges combine on 'landmark' skills alliance

Education providers have joined forces in a “game-changing” £433 million alliance.

Ten learning hubs have formed Colleges for North East England.

Bosses say the move “signals a new era of collaboration, ambition and action to address the region’s most pressing skills challenges and opportunities”.

They add the organisation – which includes Bishop Auckland College, Derwentside College and Gateshead College – will “drive economic growth, advance social justice and foster innovation”.

Boasting combined assets of £433 million and more than 62,000 students, officials say the venture will work with the North East Combined Authority to boost skills in high-growth sectors and drive new programmes aimed at tackling poverty.

The endeavour also includes Education Partnership North East – the body overseeing Sunderland College, Northumberland College and Hartlepool Sixth Form – East Durham College, Newcastle College, New College Durham and Tyne Coast College.

Leaders from Colleges for North East England said: “The North East’s further education colleges are instrumental in shaping the future of our region, by cultivating a highly skilled workforce, fuelling economic development and promoting social equity.

“By working in partnership, we will strengthen the impact of further and higher education in our region and beyond, championing our sector and advocating for the prosperity of everyone in our communities.”

Kim McGuinness, North East mayor, added: “Our fantastic colleges are integral to giving local people the skills they need to secure a well-paid job and climb the career ladder.

“It is inspiring to see the region’s leading colleges coming together, and I’m particularly pleased one of their key aims is to make sure people from all backgrounds can attend courses.

“This partnership will only build on the strength of our educational institutions, creating even more potential for innovation and economic growth.”

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