A NORTHUMBERLAND College-led initiative will reshape technical skills training in the low carbon energy generation and electric and hybrid vehicle sectors.

The group, which includes colleges and local training providers from the North of Tyne Combined Authority area, has been awarded £2.4m from the Department for Education’s (DfE) Strategic Development Fund to meet the needs of the employers in green power and green transport.

The project, led by Northumberland College (part of Education Partnership North East), will be delivered in partnership with Newcastle College, Tyne Coast College, SORA Group, 3t Energy Group and Energy Central.

Other partners include industry and employer representative bodies North East England Chamber of Commerce, North East Automotive Alliance and Energi Coast.

Partners will create new courses in battery manufacture, vehicle electrification, micro renewables and offshore wind, as well as investing in specialist, technical equipment to support teaching, training and delivery.

Cutting-edge technology, such as a 3D digital enabled learning experiences, will also be developed, immersing students in real world scenarios.

A STEM outreach programme for schools and local community organisations will also be established to raise awareness of the green energy and green transport sectors and showcase the careers available.

Iain Nixon, vice principal of partnerships and commercial at Education Partnership North East, which includes Northumberland College, said: “The funding secured through the DfE’s Strategic Development Fund will help all the partners to co-design with industry, new courses to help young people and adults develop the skills required by the area’s emerging green power and green transport sectors.

“For industry, the project will ensure they have access to highly skilled workers to support growth and drive improved productivity."