Northampton College has secured government funding to significantly enhance its construction training facilities, helping to prepare future construction professionals with industry-relevant skills. The investment will modernise existing spaces and create new specialist learning environments that reflect current construction practices and employer needs.
Work has already begun and the first improvements are expected to be completed by September. Planned developments include a covered practical training area where students can gain experience in brickwork, carpentry, roofing and scaffolding in all weather conditions. The project will also introduce Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) classrooms, allowing students to learn using techniques that are becoming increasingly common across the sector.
Additional upgrades include a dedicated inspection and testing room for End Point Assessment preparation, a specialist classroom for the T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning, a new workshop for Painting and Decorating and Property Maintenance students, and extra classrooms for theory-based learning. A new Computer Aided Design (CAD) suite for Higher National Construction students is also being created with separate support from the Office for Students.
The investment aims to address growing demand for skilled construction workers while ensuring students are trained in facilities that match modern industry standards.
Jason Lancaster, Principal of Northampton College, said:
“This investment is fantastic news for our students, our staff and the employers we work with across Northamptonshire.
“Construction is one of the fastest-growing sectors in our region and employers need highly skilled people who are ready to make an immediate impact in the workplace. By investing in modern workshops, specialist teaching spaces and facilities that reflect today’s construction industry, we’re giving our students the very best preparation for successful careers.
“These developments will ensure Northampton College remains at the forefront of construction education while helping local businesses develop the skilled workforce they need both now and in the future.”
The funding forms part of a broader government initiative to expand construction skills training capacity, supporting workforce development for future housing, infrastructure and economic growth projects. Northampton College continues to work with National and Regional Construction Technical Excellence Colleges (CTECs), and the latest investment further strengthens its position as a leading provider of construction education, scaffolding, green skills, welding and entry-level construction training in the region.
