A construction technical excellence college (CTEC) in Exeter has unveiled its plans to help address skills shortages in the south-west of England.
Exeter College, one of 10 new technical excellence colleges announced by the government in August, has outlined its strategy to help tackle the skills gap and boost the pipeline of skilled workers across the region.
Speaking to 40 representatives from regional colleges, employer representative bodies and local authorities at its Future Skills Centre, the college detailed initiatives to promote collaboration, strengthen employer engagement, expand construction training provision and create clear career pathways for learners.
The strategy includes:
- Working with delivery partners to support colleges and private training providers across the region.
- Facilitating direct engagement with employers to understand challenges and improve collaboration between the education sector and industry.
- Hosting a series of events and conferences focused on knowledge sharing and building partnerships between training providers and industry.
The college offers more than 20 construction-related courses, including apprenticeships, T-levels and full-time programmes, serving more than 1,500 learners.
John Laramy, principal and CEO at Exeter College, said: “My own career began in the construction industry and I draw on the skills and knowledge that gave me on almost a daily basis.
“That’s why I’m so pleased Exeter College has been chosen by the Department for Education to be the south west’s CTEC, and I can’t wait for us to work in partnership with education providers and employers to learn from each other, so that we can collectively bring more people into this fantastic industry.”
