HE/FE NEWS
Cheshire College launches ‘green’ apprenticeships to support sustainable careers
Cheshire College – South & West is helping businesses prepare for a low-carbon future with the launch of a suite of new “green” apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships combine practical on-the-job training with classroom-based learning, allowing students to earn while they learn and gain recognised
qualifications. Designed to equip students with essential sustainability skills, these programmes give employers the opportunity to upskill existing staff or bring in new talent to meet sustainability goals and drive innovation.
The new apprenticeships include: • Level 3 Low Carbon Heating Technician – 36-month programme, training students in energy-efficient heating systems to reduce carbon emissions.
• Level 2 Groundworker – 18-month programme, focusing on environmentally responsible groundwork for construction projects.
• Level 3 Engineering Construction Pipefitter – 36-month programme, preparing students for sustainable construction and piping systems.
• Level 2 Dual Fuel Smart Meter Installer – 14-month programme, training apprentices to install and maintain smart energy meters safely.
Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO at Cheshire College, said: “These apprenticeships reflect the growing demand for sustainable skills across industry. By combining practical training with guidance from experienced industry professionals, we are equipping students and businesses to thrive in a greener economy while supporting the UK’s net- zero ambitions.”
Karen Roberts, Assistant Principal for Apprenticeships & Employer Engagement, Cheshire College added: “We know that taking on
apprentices can feel like a big step for businesses, which is why we provide full support every step of the way. From onboarding and initial training to ongoing development, we make the process straightforward and ensure apprentices are confident and ready to contribute from day one.”
Employers benefit from fully funded apprenticeships for anyone under 25, meaning there are no training costs for the business. In addition, eligible businesses in Cheshire West and Chester can access up to £10,000 in funding to support the recruitment of clean energy apprentices. The funding package includes recruitment and training provider support, Digital Apprenticeship Service guidance, and employer mentoring and coaching.
Beyond funding, the programmes help companies build a skilled workforce, boost staff retention, and develop future leaders. Whether recruiting new talent or upskilling current employees, apprenticeships provide real-world experience that strengthens both teams and organisations.
Cheshire College works with employers directly involved in the HYNet project, including key partner Progressive Energy, the architect and lead partner of the UK’s leading industrial decarbonisation cluster. By aligning its new green apprenticeships with major low-carbon initiatives such as HYNet, the College ensures students gain the skills needed for sustainable careers while supporting the region’s journey to Net Zero. Progressive Energy was also recognised at the College’s Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2026 for its commitment to developing skills. This commitment to future-focused skills is further strengthened by the College’s new Cheshire and Warrington Institute of Technology building at its Crewe Campus. The £14.2 million facility provides industry-standard training in high-demand sectors such as engineering, construction and computing, ensuring apprentices and students benefit from cutting-edge technical education aligned to the needs of a low-carbon economy. Cheshire College works closely with businesses across the region to ensure apprentices develop the skills employers need, helping create a workforce ready to tackle the challenges of a low-carbon economy.
Hull College receives Queen Elizabeth Prize For Education
Hull College is celebrating national recognition after being presented with one of the UK’s most prestigious education honours -- the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Higher and Further Education -- for its pioneering work with English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students.
The award places Hull College
among a small group of elite institutions recognised at the highest national level for excellence, innovation, and benefit to society. The college was formally presented with a silver medal and certificate by Their Majesties The King and Queen at an investiture ceremony at St James’s Palace on Tuesday 24th February 2026.
Part of the UK’s national honours system, the Queen Elizabeth Prizes for Education are awarded every two years by the Sovereign on the advice of the Prime Minister, following a rigorous independent review process. In this round, just 19 institutions were recognised nationally - with only four Further Education colleges receiving the honour.
Supported by Ufi VocTech Trust, the college’s award-winning project, Silent Voices, Vivid Stories, is a transformative model for ESOL learning that supports refugees, asylum seekers, and migrant learners to rebuild their lives through education. The initiative tackles the global challenge of displacement while addressing the local and national priority of widening access to skills,
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www.education-today.co.uk employment, and further study.
At the heart of the programme is the college’s commitment to supporting the whole person - not just teaching English. Many learners arrive having experienced displacement, interrupted education, trauma and isolation. The college’s approach focuses on creating a sense of belonging, rebuilding confidence, and helping learners to connect with their new community in Hull.
The programme brings together cutting-edge digital innovation and trauma-informed teaching. It integrates AI-enabled storytelling, real-time translation tools and a supportive curriculum that helps learners progress from arrival through to employment or further study.
This allows students to begin learning immediately in their first language, while developing English in a safe, inclusive and digitally enhanced environment. Through AI-generated visual stories and virtual exhibition platforms, learners are able to explore identity, build confidence and express their experiences creatively - supporting both language development and emotional wellbeing.
A standout feature of the project is its digital art gallery hosted in Spatial - a virtual space where learners’ stories are brought to life through imaginative use of AI and creative technology. Each artwork reflects part of their personal journey, from life before arriving in the UK to the hopes and futures they are beginning to shape in Hull and beyond. More than an exhibition, the gallery celebrates resilience, creativity, and cultural identity, helping to build understanding and connection across Hull’s diverse communities.
March 2026
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