Redcar and Cleveland College have unveiled plans for a state-of-the-art £4.7 million All Access Academy, in collaboration with NETA Training, to address the growing demand for skilled scaffolders and workers in other industries.
The initiative, supported by the government’s Levelling Up partnership fund, underscores the college’s commitment to providing comprehensive training opportunities for individuals across Redcar and Cleveland.
Executive Principal of Redcar and Cleveland College, Jason Faulkner, emphasised the significance of the new facility, “This facility will deliver the training of skills that are in huge demand, not just here in the Tees Valley but across the UK.”
The All Access Academy will cater to sectors such as scaffolding, rope access, rigging, lifting, and welding, aligning with the needs of major regional projects, including those by SeAH Wind and BP.
NETA Training Director Sean Johnston highlighted the importance of addressing skills gaps to drive economic growth, “The All Access Academy in Redcar will now build on our commitment to meet the skill demands that will drive our economy,” he said.
With over 45 years of experience, NETA Training is poised to leverage its expertise to develop a local workforce equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in evolving industries.
The 750 square meter training facility on the college’s Corporation Road site in Redcar will offer specialised commercial training, featuring purpose-built scaffolding training areas and an industrial welding training facility. This expansion comes at a crucial time, as the scaffolding industry faces challenges such as an ageing workforce and a shortage of training opportunities.
Dave Mosley, Managing Director of the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS), expressed confidence in the initiative’s ability to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in specialised sectors. “The demand for skilled professionals trained in specialised sectors is higher than ever. NETA has a long history of supplying quality training in the region, and this project shows commitment to qualifying future scaffolding apprentices and trainees.”
Local leaders, including Cllr Alec Brown, Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, and Jacob Young, Conservative MP for Redcar, welcomed the investment in the region, highlighting its role in providing education, training, and employment opportunities for residents. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen commended the initiative as a vital component of driving economic growth and ensuring that local workers are equipped to seize emerging opportunities.
