Government announces £175m for second batch of technical colleges, with capacity for more than 65,000 learners.
The government is ramping up its commitment to provide high-skilled workers for the sectors driving the UK’s economic growth, such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy and defence, as well as digital and tech.
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It’s thought these sectors will need nearly 600,000 additional workers by 2030. Last summer, the government announced funding of £100,000 for the first 10 Technical Excellence Colleges or TECs, with total capacity for 40,000 learners. This second wave more than doubles that volume.
Colleges selected for TEC status receive funding to support high-quality teaching, improved courses and access to specialist equipment.
The 19 newly awarded TECs range from Durham to Plymouth, in locations that align with demands for skilled workers from local industry. Among the new TECs are Milton Keynes College, already a hub for innovation in AI and robotics.
The £175m provided for the new TECs comprises £97m provided by the Department for Education, £50m from the Ministry of Defence and £28m from the Department for Business and Trade.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer says: ‘I want every young person to know there is a clear route into well‑paid work, whatever their background. These colleges put technical skills front and centre, opening up high‑quality jobs in the industries driving Britain’s future. We are backing talent across the country, strengthening our workforce and making sure opportunity is built into the system – not left to chance.’
Sally Alexander, CEO of Milton Keynes College, adds: ‘Being recognised as a Technical Excellence College is a proud moment for Milton Keynes College Group, but more than that, it’s a responsibility. We are here to make sure that the government’s digital ambitions translate into real opportunities for real people – learners, employers, and communities across our region.’
Baroness Smith of Malvern, Minister for Skills, says: ‘The industries that will define Britain’s future – clean energy, advanced manufacturing, defence, digital – need a pipeline of highly skilled workers, and we’re building it.
‘This investment in new Technical Excellence Colleges will give learners across England access to world-class training and a clear route into well-paid, rewarding careers. And because the best colleges will share their expertise with others, the whole country benefits.
‘This is skills investment that works for learners, for employers, and for the regions driving growth across the country. They’ll deliver local jobs for local people, as well as growth for the whole of the country.’
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