Rodbaston College in Penkridge set to train future electricians, plumbers, vehicle technicians and construction workers
A state-of-the-art Net Zero Energy Training Centre has opened at the Rodbaston campus of South Staffordshire College. The new centre will provide learners and those working in industry with the chance to gain skills and experience in the latest tech advances as part of a wider initiative to promote net zero.

Cllr Kath Perry MBE in the college’s new hydrogen vehicle rig; photo courtesy of South Staffordshire Council
Development of the centre has been made possible through a £1.6m grant from the Getting Building Fund, as part of a long-term investment to provide the local workforce with the skills needed to make the transition from carbon-based plumbing and transport technologies to carbon-free net zero technologies – in line with wider government commitments.
The facilities include a hydrogen vehicle rig, bought by the local council through a grant from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This is just one example of the tech available at the centre which will facilitate a range of courses. Subjects include renewal heating, electric vehicle charging, hydrogen vehicle awareness, heating and water systems, installation and maintenance of air source heat pumps, retrofit, solar PV and solar hot water systems.
As well as core training for electricians, plumbers, vehicle technicians and construction workers, the centre will also provide supplementary courses of existing tradespeople that are tailored to meet the evolving demands of sustainable tech. These include specialised modules in renewable energy systems, energy-efficient building practices, advanced HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) tech, and sustainable infrastructure development for homes of the future.
Cllr Kath Perry MBE, Leader of South Staffordshire Council, says: ‘The success of South Staffordshire has been built on strong foundations of partnerships, demonstrated by the close working relationship between the college and the council and we’re thrilled to have supported the purchase of a hydrogen vehicle rig. This sector-leading investment will support learners and employers across Staffordshire and beyond, in an emergent market where there is limited opportunity to upskill nationally, complimenting the wide range of provision offered and providing an attractive proposition for our communities.’
Claire Boliver, Chief Executive Principal at South Staffordshire College, adds: ‘We are incredibly proud to open the Net Zero Energy Training Centre at Rodbaston College. This facility represents our commitment to providing cutting-edge education and training that aligns with the UK’s sustainability goals. By equipping our students with the skills needed for the future, we are not only enhancing their career prospects but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable world. A huge thank you to everyone involved in making our idea a reality.’
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