Derwentside College is proud to be part of the newly launched Construction Technical Excellence Colleges (CTECs) initiative backed by a £100 million government investment to train 40,000 new construction learners by 2029.
As a strategic spoke in the North East CTEC, led by Sunderland College and based at the pioneering Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (HICSA), Derwentside College will play a vital role in delivering cutting-edge construction training across the region.
This initiative is central to the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to:
- Deliver 1.5 million new homes and critical infrastructure like schools and hospitals.
- Reduce reliance on overseas labour by developing a homegrown, skilled workforce.
- Create well-paid, high-skilled jobs for young people and career changers.
- Support the Youth Guarantee, ensuring all 18–21-year-olds can access training, apprenticeships, or job support.
CTECs will operate on a hub-and-spoke model, working closely with employers and training providers to ensure learners gain in-demand skills in fast-growing sectors like housebuilding, engineering construction, and green energy.
Derwentside College is committed to helping shape the future of construction in the UK—empowering learners with the skills they need to build Britain’s tomorrow.
Chris Todd, Derwentside College’s Principal and Chief Executive said: “We are proud to be a strategic spoke in the North East Construction Technical Excellence College, contributing to a transformative national initiative that will shape the future of construction skills in the UK. This recognition reflects our commitment to innovation, employer collaboration, and delivering high-quality technical education. Through our partnership with Sunderland College and HICSA, we are excited to provide learners with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving sector and help build Britain’s future.”
David Allsop, Chair of Derwentside College’s Board of Corporation, said: "I am delighted that Derwentside College will be a valued strategic partner in the North East CTEC, playing a vital role in shaping the future of construction skills. The College’s commitment to innovation and collaboration will be instrumental in delivering transformative training across our region.”
