EEDA - East of England Development Agency

Stevenage Skills Centre - two years of success

8 September 2010

Almost 1,000 students have gained new skills in construction, technology and engineering at Stevenage Skills Centre since it opened in 2008.

The EEDA-funded centre has provided a boost to young people and created a rich pool of talent for local businesses. 800 new students are predicted to enroll next year, along with a host of businesses running apprenticeships through the Centre.

EEDA funded £764,000 towards Stevenage Skills Centre which was launched in August 2008. Making up part of North Hertfordshire College, the Centre consists of four large factory units which have been converted into workshops and classrooms.

An additional £500,000 was invested by EEDA for an extension to provide construction, technology and engineering training in a purpose-built facility. The new facility offers recognised qualifications, leading to greater commercial opportunities.

70 local businesses have now run apprenticeships through the centre; from companies in plumbing, brickwork and carpentry, to electrical and motor vehicle businesses.

Along with building workforce skills, the apprenticeships have offered an invaluable career path for local young people.

And it’s not just local young people and business that have benefitted. Working with Stevenage Borough Council, students have repaired dilapidated brick walls for the local community, gaining valuable experience and praise from residents and councillors.

The standard of work was so high that the Centre has been asked to repair brick work across the town and expand the project to other disciplines.

A testament to the achievements of the Centre was demonstrated at this year’s World Skills Challenge. Punching above their weight, Level 1 students picked up awards for carpentry and plumbing whilst competing against students on Level 3 courses.

“It is incredible to think that Stevenage had no skills training facility as their key priority for employment in 2008.  In just two years with EEDA support and excellent leadership at the centre we have transformed opportunities for young people and adults in the field” Fintan Donohue, Principal and Chief Executive, North Hertfordshire College

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