Leading colleges from across the North East were joined by Mayor Kim McGuinness at a strategically focussed roundtable marking the launch of a powerful new partnership designed to drive economic growth, advance social justice, foster innovation, and place a sustained spotlight on the collective impact of the region’s further and higher education colleges. This landmark alliance signals a new era of collaboration, ambition, and action to address the region’s most pressing skills challenges and opportunities.
Mayor McGuinness chaired the roundtable which brought together college leaders from across the North East Combined Authority (NECA) area to support the formal launch ofColleges for North East England, a first of its kind collaboration which will focus on several strategic workstreams designed to meet the region’s most pressing needs.
Consisting of Bishop Auckland College, Derwentside College, East Durham College, Education Partnership North East (Sunderland College, Northumberland College and Hartlepool Sixth Form), Gateshead College, Newcastle College, New College Durham, and Tyne Coast College - the largest skills alliance within NECA, Colleges for North East England will power inclusive, sustainable growth.
Collectively, Colleges for North East England are responsible for educating and training significant volumes of young people, adult learners, and apprentices, spanning provision from entry-level to higher education.
With combined assets of £433 million and over 62,000 students, Colleges for North East England already make a substantial and far-reaching contribution to social mobility and economic progress.
Moving forward, Colleges for North East England will work alongside NECA to advance skills in high growth sectors and through the foundational economy. The alliance will also strategically collaborate to support evidence-based policy development and drive new programmes to tackle poverty.
A powerful partnership for North East prosperity
Colleges for North East England will enhance vocational, technical, and higher education programmes in key growth sectors, support the local economy, and help tackle unemployment, inactivity and underrepresentation within the region’s workforce.
In doing so the alliance will also position the college sector at the forefront of UK skills and inclusive and economic and social development, raising the North East's profile both nationally and internationally.
Influencing Policy to Strengthen Education and Economic Resilience
The partnership aims to push for policies that support the education, skills, and workforce needs of the North East. By working with local and national policymakers, the colleges will tackle skills shortages and economic challenges by accessing essential funding and resources. By creating new insights and opportunities, the partnership will ensure colleges are at the forefront and shape future policies.
Fostering Innovation and Strategic Partnerships
To create a future-ready workforce, Colleges for North East England will work with industry leaders and academic institutions to develop new educational programs. By investing in digital platforms and modern facilities, the partnership will encourage innovation in teaching and learning. It will also boost local business growth and strengthen partnerships across different sectors to drive economic development.
Promoting Inclusive Opportunities and Reducing Inequality
This partnership is dedicated to reducing inequality and promoting inclusion for everyone in the North East. The colleges will make sure education is accessible to disadvantaged and vulnerable groups by offering targeted programs to help under-represented individuals. Equity and inclusion will be a key part of everything the partnership does, focusing on removing barriers to success.
Driving Sustainable Local Development
Colleges for North East England aims to drive sustainable development in both urban and rural areas of the North East. By aligning education with local needs, the colleges will support regeneration projects, focusing on education-led development zones. Green skills and sustainability will be part of the curriculum, preparing students for a low-carbon economy. The partnership will also work with local businesses and community groups to match educational programs with regional development goals.
A Unified Vision for the North East’s Future
This partnership is a game-changer for regional development, blending educational excellence with economic and social impact. By working together across different sectors, the Colleges for North East England are ready to make a significant contribution to the region's future, tackling today's challenges and creating tomorrow's opportunities.
Kim McGuinness, Mayor of North East England, said:
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, said: "Our fantastic colleges in the North East are integral to giving local people the skills they need to secure a well-paid job and climb the career ladder.
“So, it’s inspiring to see the region’s leading colleges coming together in this new partnership. I’m particularly pleased that one of their key aims is to make sure people from all backgrounds can attend courses.
“This partnership will only build on the strength of our educational institutions, creating even more potential for innovation and economic growth.”
In a joint statement, the Colleges for North East England, said:
“The North East's further education colleges are instrumental in shaping the future of our region by cultivating a highly skilled workforce, fuelling economic development, and promoting social equity.
“Together, we serve communities right across the North East and impact the lives of tens of thousands of people every year. By working in partnership, we will strengthen the impact of further and higher education in our region and beyond, championing our sector and advocating for the prosperity of everyone in our communities.”
With a shared vision and clear goals, this partnership paves the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for the North East. It ensures the region stays at the forefront of education, innovation, and sustainable development.
North East Mayor Kim McGuiness (centre) with Colleges for North East England leaders (L-R) Jon Ridley (Principal, Newcastle College); Shaun Hope (Principal and CEO, Bishop Auckland College); Ellen Thinnesen (CEO, Education Partnership North East); David Alexander (Principal and CEO, Gateshead College); Andy Broadbent (Principal and CEO, New College Durham); Toni Rhodes (Deputy CEO, Education Partnership North East); Scott Bullock (Principal and CEO, East Durham College); Chris Todd (Principal and CEO, Derwentside College); Alison Maynard (Deputy Principal, New College Durham); David Gardner (Assistant Principal, Tynecoast College).
