Skills provider cuts ribbon on new training operation

A skills provider has officially opened a training hub.

The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) has cut the ribbon on a North Tyneside site.

Based on Cobalt Park, on the outskirts of Newcastle, bosses say the venture will “help address skills shortages and build a pipeline of engineering and manufacturing talent”.

They add the site – whose curriculum has been shaped by North East employer input – will support more than 40 apprentices in its first year, with that figure earmarked to grow beyond 100 annually.

The operator’s blueprint also includes enrolling about 300 learners on programmes at any one time.

Opened by MTC chief executive Dr Graham Hoare, the North Tyneside base’s curriculum includes mechatronics maintenance technician and engineering fitter apprenticeships, with the site complementing sister hubs in Coventry, Liverpool and Oxfordshire.

David Grailey, MTC Training managing director, said: “The North East has a proud industrial heritage and is home to some of the UK’s most important manufacturing industries.

“Maintaining that strength means ensuring businesses have access to the skilled people they need to grow, adopt new technologies and remain competitive.”

MTC is backed by Lloyds Banking Group, which officials say has helped support more than 5000 apprentices, graduates and engineers to date.

Amanda Murphy, Lloyds Banking Group’s business and commercial banking chief executive, added: “By investing in technical skills and creating more pathways into engineering and manufacturing careers, we’re helping businesses build the workforce they need for the future, while creating opportunities for people and communities across the region.

“The opening of MTC’s Tyneside base is an important next step in helping unlock growth across the North East and strengthening the UK’s industrial future.”

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