New Green Skills Centre will provide state-of-the-art training for the eco industries

New City College is delighted to announce it has completed its highly-anticipated Green Skills Centre which will provide state-of-the-art training for learners keen to work in the expanding green industries.

The skills centre has been created with a significant investment, and has transformed 120 sqm of former storage space at NCC’s Epping Forest Campus, in Borders Lane, Loughton, into Low Carbon and Retrofit labs with cutting-edge technology.

This project is part of the college’s broader efforts to support the UK’s transition to a net-zero carbon economy by equipping students with practical skills in renewable energy and green technologies.

As well as offering workers already employed in industry the chance to upskill, the Green Skills Centre will also provide a hub for school leavers to acquire hands-on experience with industry-leading equipment and access to courses that will prepare them for careers in this rapidly growing sector.

The space now housing the labs has been completely transformed. Previously used for storing materials within the bricklaying workshop, it now houses training bays equipped with advanced technology used by UK installers.

Courses offered include training on heat pumps, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, and EV charging installation and maintenance. These low carbon technologies are crucial to the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure and the fight against climate change.

New City College has completed its Green Skills Centre at Epping Forest Campus which will provide training for learners keen to work or progress in the expanding green industries.

New City College has partnered with industry experts to ensure that the training offered in the Green Skills Centre is aligned with current industry practices and that the training bays are designed with the latest equipment to give students a real-world learning experience that’s directly transferable to employment.

The courses provided by NCC come with industry-recognised qualifications, putting learners in the best position for job opportunities.

Recognising that not all learners can attend in person regularly, the college has also developed online learning programmes that complement hands-on training.

Short courses for rapid upskilling

For professionals already in employment, NCC offers short courses aimed at providing rapid upskilling. These are tailored for those looking to transition into the green sector or expand their current expertise to take advantage of new business opportunities. The college has worked closely with awarding bodies and employers to develop these courses, ensuring they fill gaps in the market where specific training options did not previously exist.

Collaboration for net zero and local impact

New City College’s LSIF (Local Skills Improvement Fund) project is part of the Essex LSIP (Local Skills Improvement Plan) and is a key initiative in supporting both the national net zero agenda and addressing the local skills needs of Essex employers and residents. Through close collaboration with LSIF partners, and local and national employers, NCC has been able to ensure that its training programmes align with the evolving demands of the green technology sector. This collaboration is crucial in creating a bridge between education, training and industry.

One example of NCC’s response to industry needs is the introduction of Drone pilot training courses. As drones become increasingly relied upon in the construction sector for tasks like surveying and thermal imaging, NCC saw the need to develop specialised training in this area.

Employer engagement at its heart

Employer engagement is at the heart of NCC’s approach to curriculum development. Working collaboratively with employers, the college can quickly adapt its curriculum to meet emerging needs, ensuring that students are equipped with skills that are relevant to the current job market.

The college regularly hosts events and training sessions to bring employers and staff together where feedback is shared. This helps to shape the content of future courses and ensures they are responsive to industry changes.

Through bespoke training solutions, NCC tailors its offerings to the specific needs of local businesses ensuring the development of courses that meet their workforce needs.

Upskilling college staff for the future

Creating new courses requires highly skilled teaching staff. To deliver new training, NCC has worked closely with employers to develop strategies for upskilling existing staff. This has included career-changer programmes that allow professionals from industry to transition into teaching roles. Working alongside LSIF partners, NCC has also developed a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme, ensuring staff remain up-to-date with the latest industry innovations.

Bold step forward

NCC’s Green Skills Centre is a bold step forward in supporting the transition to a greener, sustainable economy. With its focus on hands-on, practical training in low carbon technologies, the centre is equipping learners with the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly growing industry. By collaborating with local and national employers, LSIF partners, and industry experts, NCC is ensuring that its courses are aligned with the needs of the market.

As the green economy continues to expand, initiatives like the Green Skills Centre will play a pivotal role in providing Essex residents with the skills and opportunities to thrive in this dynamic landscape.

New City College Green Skills Centre, Epping Forest Campus, Borders Lane, Loughton IG10 3SA.

For more information: www.ncctradeskills.co.uk

Email commercial@ncclondon.ac.uk or call 020 7613 9239.