Tag: Fundamental Principles of Renewable Technologies and Sustainable Energy

Quantum Partners with NOCN Group to Address Green Skills Gap with Regulated Built Environment Courses

Posted on by Chris Gonella

Quantum Partners with NOCN Group to Address Green Skills Gap with Regulated Built Environment Courses

In an ambitious move to address the growing green skills gap, Quantum has announced a strategic partnership with NOCN Group, a leading UK-based international skills charity and qualification provider. This collaboration aims to revolutionise the training landscape for the built environment, focusing on sustainable, low-carbon technologies and retrofit skills. As the world transitions towards a greener economy, the demand for skilled professionals in sustainable construction and energy-efficient technologies is rapidly increasing. Quantum and NOCN Group are poised to meet this demand by offering regulated courses that will equip the workforce with the necessary expertise to drive the UK’s net-zero ambitions.

Tackling the Green Skills Gap

The green skills gap is a critical challenge that has been increasingly highlighted by industry leaders and policymakers alike. With the UK government setting ambitious targets to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, there is an urgent need for a skilled workforce capable of implementing sustainable practices across various sectors, particularly in the built environment. However, a significant shortage of workers with the required green skills has emerged as a bottleneck in this transition.

This partnership between Quantum and NOCN Group is designed to bridge this gap by providing high-quality, regulated training programs that focus on the latest advancements in sustainable technologies. These programs will not only offer technical knowledge but also emphasise the practical skills required to implement these technologies in real-world settings.

The Role of NOCN Group in the Partnership

NOCN Group, with its extensive experience in vocational education and qualifications, plays a pivotal role in this partnership. Known for its commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible skills solutions, NOCN Group will bring its expertise in developing and accrediting courses that meet industry standards and regulatory requirements.

NOCN Group chief executive Graham Hasting-Evans, says: “As a truly independent charitable organisation that doesn’t have to answer to commercial shareholders, we have the freedom to focus on the skills solutions that matter most for the economy, society, and the planet. That’s why green skills has been top of our agenda for a number of years and we are committed to be a leader in the area. Our partnerships with training providers and employers are vital and our work with Quantum to deliver our new suite of regulated built environment courses will ensure that the right people get access to them and can make the most of them. Together, we’re helping to build the workforce of the future.”

By collaborating with Quantum, NOCN Group will ensure that the courses offered are not only aligned with the latest industry trends but are also tailored to the specific needs of the green economy. This includes developing curricula that focus on energy-efficient building practices, renewable energy technologies, and sustainable construction methods.

Quantum’s Commitment to Sustainable Skills Development

Quantum has long been at the forefront of delivering innovative training solutions in the built environment sector. With a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, Quantum has successfully trained thousands of professionals who are now leading the charge in sustainable construction and energy efficiency.

This partnership with NOCN Group is a natural extension of Quantum’s commitment to sustainability. By offering regulated courses that focus on net-zero technologies, Quantum aims to provide learners with the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. These courses will be accessible to a wide range of learners, from new entrants to experienced professionals looking to upskill in sustainable practices.

Key Courses and Learning Pathways

The partnership will initially focus on developing a suite of courses that cover key areas of the green economy, including:

  1. Energy-Efficient Building Practices: This course will cover the latest techniques and materials used in constructing energy-efficient buildings, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and improving energy performance.
  2. Renewable Energy Technologies: Learners will gain in-depth knowledge of renewable energy systems, including solar, wind, and geothermal technologies. The course will also cover the installation, maintenance, and optimisation of these systems.
  3. Sustainable Construction Methods: This course will explore sustainable construction practices, including the use of eco-friendly materials, waste reduction techniques, and sustainable project management.
  4. Net-Zero Building Design: Focused on the principles of net-zero design, this course will teach learners how to create buildings that produce as much energy as they consume, significantly reducing their carbon footprint.

These courses will be delivered through a blend of online and in-person learning, allowing learners to gain practical experience while also benefiting from the flexibility of online study. Additionally, all courses will be fully accredited by NOCN Group, ensuring that learners receive nationally recognised qualifications that are valued by employers across the industry.

Industry Impact and Future Prospects

The partnership between Quantum and NOCN Group is expected to have a significant impact on the built environment sector, providing the skilled workforce needed to drive the UK’s net-zero goals. By equipping professionals with the latest skills in sustainable technologies, this collaboration will help to accelerate the adoption of green practices across the industry.

Moreover, the partnership sets a new standard for vocational training in the green economy. As more industries recognise the importance of sustainability, there will be a growing demand for regulated courses that offer both technical knowledge and practical skills. Quantum and NOCN Group are well-positioned to meet this demand, offering courses that are not only relevant to current industry needs but also adaptable to future developments in green technology.

Looking ahead, Quantum and NOCN Group plan to expand their partnership by developing additional courses and learning pathways that address emerging trends in the green economy. This includes exploring new technologies such as smart grids, energy storage systems, and sustainable urban planning. By staying at the forefront of these developments, Quantum and NOCN Group aim to continue providing cutting-edge training that prepares learners for the challenges and opportunities of the green economy.

Quantum’s Maria Gonella has said, “I am delighted to announce our partnership with NOCN Group and look forward to the opportunities that this will provide for learners nationwide. Bringing practical learning to the future development of our courses will enhance our existing and future offerings to all learners.”

Conclusion

The partnership between Quantum and NOCN Group marks a significant step forward in addressing the green skills gap in the built environment sector. By offering regulated courses that focus on sustainable, net-zero technologies and skills, this collaboration is poised to equip the workforce with the expertise needed to drive the UK’s transition to a greener economy. As the demand for green skills continues to grow, Quantum and NOCN Group are committed to providing high-quality, accessible training that empowers learners to succeed in the rapidly evolving landscape of the green economy.

New Green Skills: Vision For Zero Waste Impact

Posted on by Chris Gonella

Zero Waste Week is an annual global initiative aimed at promoting waste reduction and sustainable living practices. It serves as a catalyst for individuals, communities, and organisations to reassess their consumption habits and adopt strategies that minimize waste, conserve resources, and reduce their environmental footprint. This movement complements Quantum Group’s mission to provide innovative, practical training solutions that foster green skills development and advance toward a net-zero future. You can find out more about Zero Waste Week here.

At Quantum Group, we are committed to moving from a “take, make, dispose” model to a circular economy, where resources are reused and recycled. With rising carbon emissions and slow renewable energy adoption, effective solutions are crucial. As the UK aims to cut carbon emissions by 68% by 2030 (GOV.UK, 2021), Quantum Group addresses these challenges through specialized training in renewable technologies like heat pumps and solar panels, equipping learners with essential skills for a low-carbon economy and ambitious climate goals.

Enhancing Green Skills for a Sustainable Future

A trainee engaged in hands-on training in one of Quantum's state-of-the-art training bays. In the aim to provide practical experience in green skills development.

Following Zero Waste Week, the development of green skills becomes even more critical. Green skills encompass a wide range of knowledge and abilities essential for living and working sustainably, from basic actions like sorting waste correctly to more advanced practices like repairing, repurposing items, and installing renewable energy systems. Quantum Group is at the forefront of this movement by collaborating with educational institutions to provide practical, hands-on training bays that bridge the gap between theory and practical application.

A critical part of reducing carbon emissions and waste in the UK involves improving the energy efficiency of homes. According to the UK Government’s Climate Change Committee, around 19 million heat pumps need to be installed by 2050 to meet the UK’s net-zero targets (Climate Change Committee, 2020). Currently, there are only about 1.2 million heat pumps installed across the country (GOV.UK, 2021). Quantum Group’s training facilities are designed to educate learners on sustainable practices like installing and maintaining heat pumps and other renewable energy systems. Through our renewable energy training bays, we provide hands-on experience that simulates real-world applications, helping learners develop critical green skills.

Addressing the Skills Gap in Renewable Energy

Quantum Group is dedicated to addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the green economy by integrating renewable energy technologies into our training programs. As the global renewable energy sector continues to expand, with an expected increase in jobs related to green technologies, it’s crucial to equip the workforce with the necessary skills. Our bespoke training bays, featuring technologies such as solar panels, heat pumps, and other low-carbon solutions, provide learners with hands-on experience in installing and maintaining these systems. This practical training is essential for preparing the next generation of professionals to meet the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

A shift to a greener economy could create 24 million new jobs worldwide by 2030 (www.ilo.org, 2018). Quantum Group’s training courses are designed to equip learners with the necessary skills to fill these roles and contribute to a sustainable future.

Supporting the Circular Economy with Practical Solutions

Quantum Group champions the circular economy by offering practical solutions for sustainable living. For example, our Renewable Energy Demonstration Units provide compact, mobile learning tools that can fit into smaller spaces, making green training accessible to more institutions. These units allow learners to gain hands-on experience with technologies that promote resource conservation, such as infrared-simulated solar PV systems.

The Evolving Green Skills Landscape: Plumbing, Heating, and Electrical Sectors

Transitioning to a greener economy requires new skills across many sectors, particularly in plumbing, heating, and electrical industries. As the global demand for green skills outpaces supply, the need for focused education and training becomes urgent. In the UK, achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 relies heavily on equipping workers with the ability to implement sustainable practices.

The UK’s “Green Skills in Education and Employment” report highlights the critical role that green skills play in reaching national climate targets, particularly in these sectors. Meanwhile, LinkedIn’s “Green Skills Report 2023” shows a global surge in demand for green skills, with job postings requiring such skills increasing by 22.4% between 2022 and 2023, outpacing the growth of green talent in the workforce, which increased by just 12.3% during the same period (Linkedin, 2023).

Green Skills in Plumbing

The plumbing sector is adapting to environmentally friendly technologies by incorporating water-efficient systems, renewable energy sources, and sustainable materials. Key skills now needed include:

  • Water Conservation Techniques: Proficiency in installing and maintaining systems like low-flow fixtures, greywater recycling, and rainwater harvesting.
  • Renewable Energy Systems: Knowledge of installing and servicing solar thermal systems and heat pumps.
  • Sustainable Material Selection: Understanding the environmental impacts of materials and choosing sustainable alternatives.

Green Skills in Heating

In the heating industry, the move toward energy-efficient and renewable heating solutions is rapidly growing. Essential skills include:

  • Heat Pump Installation and Maintenance: Expertise in ground-source and air-source heat pumps.
  • Biomass Heating Systems: Ability to install and maintain biomass boilers.
  • Energy Efficiency Audits: Capability to conduct energy audits and recommend improvements.

Green Skills in Electrical

The electrical industry focuses on renewable energy and smart technologies. Electricians must be skilled in:

  • Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems: Installation and maintenance of solar PV systems.
  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure: Setting up and maintaining EV charging stations.
  • Smart Grid Technology: Integrating smart grids and energy storage into existing networks.

Comparing the UK’s Needs with Global Trends

The UK’s commitment to net-zero targets by 2050 is driving an increasing demand for green skills in these sectors. However, the global perspective highlights that many countries face similar challenges. As industries worldwide seek to close the gap between green skill demand and supply, a coordinated effort to enhance green education and training is essential.

Upskilling and Retraining Workforces for Green Jobs

The LinkedIn Global Green Skills Report 2023 reveals a significant gap in green skills across the global workforce, with only about 12% of workers currently possessing one or more green skills. This shortfall is increasingly problematic as the demand for green skills continues to escalate across both traditional and emerging sectors.

To address this challenge, it is crucial to enhance the availability and appeal of green skills training programs. Governments, educational institutions, and industry experts must collaborate to develop relevant courses and qualifications tailored to the evolving needs of both employers and employees. By making green training more accessible and engaging, we can better equip the workforce to meet the rising demand for sustainability-focused roles and ensure a smoother transition to a greener economy.

Addressing the Green Skills Shortage

To meet these demands, the UK and other countries must invest in education and training programs, including apprenticeships and vocational training, to build a workforce equipped with the necessary green skills. Strategic investments in this area not only address environmental challenges but also create significant economic opportunities.

Building a Sustainable Workforce

Quantum Group is dedicated to developing a green workforce through accredited training courses in heating, plumbing, and renewable technologies. With up to 694,000 green jobs needed in the UK by 2030(www.local.gov.uk), our programs aim to bridge the skills gap and prepare learners for sustainability-focused careers.

One of our recent successes is the collaboration with Buckinghamshire College Group at the Aylesbury Campus Green Skills Hub. Completed in under two months, the Hub offers hands-on experience with cutting-edge renewable technologies and is a testament to Quantum Group’s commitment to delivering real-world training solutions.

Matthew Cappell, Director for Construction and Technology at Buckinghamshire College Group, noted:

“Quantum’s been the go-to people for this sort of installation for renewables. The workmanship is top quality, and our learners have been enriched by watching it come together. This is going to revolutionise Buckinghamshire’s renewable prospectus.”

You can read more testimonials and case studies about the work we have done here.

Quantum Group’s Initiatives in Workforce Training

At Quantum Group, we are dedicated to addressing the green skills gap and accelerating the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy. As a leading decarbonisation specialist and renewable training provider, we offer a range of innovative training products and services designed to equip learners with the essential skills needed to drive a sustainable future.

Tailored Training Solutions for Renewable Technologies

We partner with colleges and training institutions to provide comprehensive renewable training facilities, tailored to their specific needs. Our unique offering includes designing, supplying, and installing bespoke training bays that provide practical, hands-on learning experiences for learners.

Our training bays offer comprehensive, hands-on experiences for each renewable technology. For instance, heat pump training includes three types of bays: the Working System Bay shows a complete installation with underfloor heating; the Install Bay allows practical tasks like commissioning and pipework exchange; and the Fault Finding Bay features simulated faults for troubleshooting practice. This setup ensures a smooth learning progression and skill development.

If space is a constraint, we offer flexible solutions such as bespoke bays that can be adjusted in size to fit your available space. Additionally, we can provide multi-technology bays that combine several low-carbon technologies into one system, allowing learners to understand how these technologies work together to provide comprehensive energy solutions. For example, a combined system might include solar PV, battery storage, and an EV charging setup to demonstrate how these components integrate effectively.

Innovative Training Approaches and Resources

Our approach goes beyond just installation. We provide simulated environments that replicate real-world scenarios without the need for complex installations. For instance, solar PV training can be conducted using infrared lighting to simulate energy production, eliminating the need for roof installations and providing a more cost-effective and flexible training solution.

We also provide a toolkit with every bay order, which includes all the necessary tools for practical learning, making it easier for learners to engage with the equipment. This ensures that institutions are fully equipped to deliver effective training without needing additional resources.

In addition to the practical training infrastructure, we have developed a range of courses that complement our training bays. These courses, created in collaboration with industry leaders like Daikin UK, cover a broad spectrum of low-carbon technologies and are designed to be accessible to all learners, from those just starting their careers to seasoned professionals looking to upskill. Our Level 2 courses, for example, provide an excellent foundation for learners, with a curriculum that contextualizes the importance of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy, making the bigger picture clear and motivating for students.

Our training solutions are also ideal for adult education and evening classes, providing a stepping stone for those looking to enter or advance in the renewable energy sector. We offer full support to instructors, including comprehensive course materials, slides, and breakdowns to simplify teaching and maximize the learning experience for students.

At Quantum, our mission is to bridge the gap between theory and practice by providing immersive and hands-on renewable training experiences. We remain committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, enabling us to lead the way in driving the green transition and achieving a sustainable future.

Interested in Learning More?

If you have any questions or would like to explore how our training bays and courses can benefit your institution, please feel free to reach out to [email protected].

Your Role in a Sustainable Future

Whether you are an individual, a business, or a community group, Quantum Group encourages you to get involved in ongoing waste reduction and sustainability efforts. By setting personal or organisational goals to reduce waste, embracing green skills training, and participating in community initiatives, you can play a vital role in building a sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference—every small action, from refusing unnecessary packaging to learning how to install renewable energy systems, contributes to a larger movement toward sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Bibliography

Climate Change Committee (2020). Sixth Carbon Budget. [online] Climate Change Committee. Available at: https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/sixth-carbon-budget/.

GOV.UK (2021). Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener. [online] GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/net-zero-strategy.

Linkedin (2023). Global Green Skills Report 2023. [online] Available at: https://economicgraph.linkedin.com/content/dam/me/economicgraph/en-us/global-green-skills-report/green-skills-report-2023.pdf.

www.ilo.org. (2018a). 24 million jobs to open up in the green economy | International Labour Organization. [online] Available at: https://www.ilo.org/resource/news/24-million-jobs-open-green-economy-0#:~:text=ILO%20flagship%20report%20estimates%20job.

www.ilo.org. (2018b). World Employment and Social Outlook 2018: Greening with jobs | International Labour Organization. [online] Available at: https://www.ilo.org/publications/world-employment-and-social-outlook-2018-greening-jobs.

www.local.gov.uk. (n.d.). Local green jobs – accelerating a sustainable economic recovery | Local Government Association. [online] Available at: https://www.local.gov.uk/local-green-jobs-accelerating-sustainable-economic-recovery#:~:text=In%202018%20there%20were%20185%2C000.

Zero Waste Week. (n.d.). Zero Waste Week UK. [online] Available at: https://www.zerowasteweek.co.uk/zero-waste-uk/.

FE Green Skills: Unlocking the Path to a Better Tomorrow

Posted on by Chris Gonella

As the summer break draws to a close and Further Education (FE) colleges prepare for a new academic year, it’s essential to reflect on the significant policy shifts around green skills and workforce development that have occurred over the past few months. The landscape of education and training has evolved rapidly, emphasizing sustainability and preparing the workforce for a greener future. This article aims to provide FE colleges with a comprehensive overview of these changes and offer strategies for navigating this new era.

As the new academic year unfolds, FE colleges face a pivotal moment in aligning their training programs with emerging policies and workforce demands. With Labour’s 2024 General Election manifesto proposing significant changes, including transforming FE colleges into Technical Excellence Colleges and a heightened focus on green skills, educational institutions must stay abreast of these developments. Introducing Skills England and the Growth and Skills Levy further underscores the need for strategic adaptations in training programs. This article explores the implications of these policy shifts, the impact of Retrofit and the Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF), and how FE colleges can navigate these changes to support a sustainable and skilled workforce.

Policy changes

Labour’s manifesto proposes transforming FE colleges into specialist Technical Excellence Colleges. This initiative aims to better align education with local economic needs, focusing on sectors such as green energy and emerging technologies. This shift is part of a broader strategy to create a highly skilled workforce equipped to meet future demands.

Labour has also emphasized the importance of green skills as part of their commitment to a green industrial strategy. This focus will drive up the demand for training in areas related to net-zero initiatives. FE colleges will play a crucial role in providing this necessary training.

Skills England: A New Era for Workforce Development

A recent key development is the establishment of Skills England, which will oversee and unify the UK’s skills system. This new body will tackle skills shortages and align the post-16 skills system with the government’s Industrial Strategy. Skills England will bring together central and local government, businesses, training providers, and unions to enhance local economies and reduce dependence on overseas workers.

Richard Pennycook CBE has been appointed as the interim Chair to lead this initiative. Skills England will be set up over the next 9 to 12 months, with a focus on assessing future skills needs and building strong relationships with employers. This includes the transfer of responsibilities from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) to Skills England.

Implications of the Growth and Skills Levy
A person working on installing or maintaining solar panels, wearing safety gear and focused on the task. The image highlights the use of sustainable technology, with the solar panels visibly promoting renewable energy solutions

Another significant reform is the introduction of the Growth and Skills Levy. This new approach allows businesses to allocate up to 50% of their contributions to a wider range of training programs. This flexibility aims to better meet the needs of evolving industries and sectors.

The ability to fund diverse training initiatives beyond traditional apprenticeships will help align development programs with industry needs, crucial for maintaining competitiveness and supporting strategic goals.

Strategic Alignment and Next Steps

As Skills England takes shape, it will initially focus on setting up within the Department for Education (DfE) and assessing future skills requirements. The new framework will ensure that training aligns with identified skills needs and provides value for money.

The Quantum Group will closely monitor these developments and adjust our training strategies to capitalize on the new opportunities presented by Skills England. We will leverage the flexibility of the Growth and Skills Levy to invest in impactful training programs. Additionally, we aim to support the development of a skilled workforce.

The launch of Skills England marks a transformative moment for the UK’s skills system. By uniting central and local government, businesses, training providers, and unions, Skills England will address the skills needs of the next decade across all regions, aligning with the government’s Industrial Strategy. Its focus on supporting local areas, particularly in construction, aims to enhance sustainable growth and reduce reliance on overseas workers through collaboration with the Migration Advisory Committee. With increased flexibility and strategic oversight, businesses and FE colleges can benefit from more targeted workforce development strategies. This initiative will shape the future of skills training and drive sustainable economic growth. You can read more about Skills England and its role here:

Green Skills Guide: Government’s Retrofit Roadmap

With new ministers poised to start their roles, focusing on home retrofitting for net zero should be a top priority. Effective retrofitting, including transitioning to low-carbon heating, can help lower household energy bills, improve public health, create jobs across communities, and support the UK’s net zero goals. The Climate Change Committee has emphasized the need to decarbonize nearly all buildings.

A crucial aspect that must not be overlooked is the role of FE and the broader education system in preparing the workforce for retrofitting. A recent analysis of the 38 Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) across England reveals a significant gap in addressing retrofitting needs. The LSIPs, designed to align local skills training with employer needs, often fail to address net zero skills adequately.

Many LSIPs have inadequately addressed retrofitting, with some even neglecting the topic. Where retrofitting is mentioned, it is often relegated to lower priority compared to other skills like recycling. This oversight is problematic given the scale of the workforce needed—estimated between 250,000 and 500,000 people—to achieve retrofitting goals.(Gatsby Charitable Foundation, 2024).

The disconnect between industrial and skills policies needs to be addressed. We need a national strategy to coordinate efforts between the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Department for Education (DfE) This strategy should engage a range of stakeholders and scale up training programs to meet the anticipated demand for retrofitting skills.

Integrating Retrofitting into Education

To meet future demand, FE colleges need to integrate retrofitting and building physics into their construction-related qualifications, such as T-Levels. This integration will better prepare the next generation of workers with the skills necessary for effective retrofitting. Retrofitting homes is a critical investment with significant health, economic, and environmental benefits. Therefore, new minsters must prioritize this area and develop a cohesive strategy that includes strong skills development to support the UK’s climate goals.

Addressing these challenges requires both immediate and long-term actions. In the short term, the UK Government should establish comprehensive retrofit and green skills frameworks to aid local planning and enhance understanding of retrofit skills among employer representative bodies (ERBs). Close collaboration between the DfE and the DESNZ is also necessary to provide effective guidance and share best practices for developing retrofit training facilities.

For the long term, a national retrofit strategy aligned with decarbonization targets is essential. This strategy should ensure sustained funding to build confidence among employers and FE colleges, raise quality standards in construction, and develop a communication plan to boost awareness of retrofit skills. Updating construction qualifications to include building physics and retrofitting content will help prepare a skilled workforce. Although LSIPs represent progress, we need a more coordinated approach to meet the skill demands for retrofitting and achieve the UK’s decarbonization goals. Providing adequate support and resources for developing retrofit skills will be crucial for these initiatives’ success. To learn more about the ‘Retrofit Revolution,’ click here or contact [email protected] for assistance.

Local Skills Improvement Fund

We invited further education providers to apply for funding from the LSIF to upgrade facilities with modern equipment, enhance teacher training, and introduce new courses in critical areas like green construction, carbon capture, and cybersecurity. This initiative aimed to address and fill existing skills gaps by aligning educational offerings with the demands of local employers.

Thousands of individuals have benefited from the enhancement of skills training, which has helped them obtain quality employment opportunities near their homes. Additionally, this initiative is supporting local economies by ensuring employers have access to a workforce with the precise skills required for business growth. Furthermore, the money from the LSIF is being distributed up until March 2025, so there is still time to get involved!

A Quantum training bay equipped with modern renewable energy technologies. The setup is designed for hands-on training in green skills, featuring tools and equipment for sustainable energy practices

FE providers across the country have crafted project plans using the available LSIF. This fund offers a pathway for FE providers to address the needs outlined in their LSIPs. It focuses on critical areas requiring investment to support economic growth, local Net Zero targets, technical education, and upskilling. We recently partnered with Buckinghamshire College Group to develop their Green Energy Skills Hub at the Aylesbury Campus, marking one of our fastest installations yet. After our initial site visit in mid-January 2024, we secured approval in early February and completed the installation by March. The Hub is now equipped with five Air Source Heat Pump Training Bays, three Electrical Ecosystem Bays, and three Solar Thermal Training Bays.

The Hub’s grand opening on May 21, 2024, was attended by leading renewable energy manufacturers, including Mitsubishi, GivEnergy, MCS, Viessmann, and Buckinghamshire Council. This project showcases our ability to deliver top-tier training facilities quickly and efficiently. To see more of our work, click here.

The green skills sector is facing a major skills shortage, amid surging demand for engineers who can install and maintain low-carbon technology such as heat pumps, solar panels and electric vehicle chargers. Half of the global population is currently aged 30 or younger, and this proportion is expected to rise to 57% by the end of 2030. (Gatsby Charitable Foundation, 2024). This represents the largest generation of young people in history. To ensure a successful transition to a more sustainable and equitable world, focusing on developing green skills among youth is essential.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) reports that shifting to sustainable energy sources within a circular economy framework could generate approximately 100 million new jobs. However, this transition may also lead to the loss of some existing jobs. It is crucial for young people to receive adequate training and support to adapt to these changes in the job market.

Additionally, governments worldwide are implementing stricter environmental regulations. Both organizations and individuals need to acquire green skills to comply with these regulations and avoid potential penalties. Adhering to these standards is vital for the long-term success of businesses and individuals alike.

At Quantum Training, we focus on meeting the funding requirements set for FE providers and tackling immediate needs in the green skills sector. As a specialist in renewables and decarbonisation, Quantum has tailored its training programs to provide both practical experience and theoretical knowledge. Our Level 2 ‘Sustainable Energy and Renewable Technologies’ Course, accredited by City and Guilds, offers a comprehensive approach to developing skills in the green sector.

As policy landscapes evolve and workforce needs shift, FE colleges are at a critical point in shaping the future of education and training. Labour’s proposed changes, the formation of Skills England, and the Growth and Skills Levy offer both challenges and opportunities. By leveraging initiatives like the ‘Ready for Retrofit’ program and LSIF, colleges can improve training and address green skills gaps. Integrating retrofitting and sustainable technologies into curricula and upskilling educators will be crucial for preparing the next generation of workers. FE colleges must embrace these developments, align programs with emerging needs, and play a proactive role in building a greener, more skilled workforce. This approach will significantly contribute to sustainable economic growth and advancing industry standards.

We recognize the urgency of bridging the green skills gap and building the net-zero workforce of the future. It is crucial to take action now to meet local, national, and global priorities for green technical skills development.

We have actively assisted several colleges in enhancing their training programs by installing advanced training bays and retrofit bays. These facilities offer students practical experience with low-carbon technologies, including heat pumps, solar PV systems, and electric vehicle chargers.

A trainee engaged in hands-on training in one of Quantum's state-of-the-art training bays. In the aim to provide practical experience in green skills development.

Our Train the Green Trainer course actively advances the skills of college instructors and lecturers. Through hands-on sessions and in-depth courses, participants gain expertise in delivering effective renewable energy training. Our program includes comprehensive training on Quantum’s facilities, the Level 2 Sustainable Energy Technologies course, and advanced Level 3 Heat Pump systems. This initiative ensures educators are well-prepared to teach and inspire students in the growing field of green skills.

Our team is also available to provide guidance on cost-effective solutions for your college and assist in meeting the Government’s LSIF revenue and capital expenditure deadlines. By collaborating with us, you can ensure timely compliance with these important deadlines, making the most of available funding opportunities. This partnership will not only help your college secure the necessary resources but also enhance your ability to adapt to evolving educational demands and implement effective training programs. Ultimately, our support aims to empower your institution to thrive in this changing landscape and successfully achieve its strategic goals.

Bibliography:

First Intuition. (2024). The New Government’s Growth and Skills Levy – What Should It Look Like? | FE News. [Online]. Available at: https://www.fenews.co.uk/skills/the-new-governments-growth-and-skills-levy-what-should-it-look-like/ [Accessed 19 August 2024].

Gatsby Charitable Foundation. (2024). Ready for Retrofit? What new ministers can learn from the 2023 LSIPs | FE News. [Online]. Available at: https://www.fenews.co.uk/exclusive/ready-for-retrofit-what-new-ministers-can-learn-from-the-2023-lsips/ [Accessed 19 August 2024].

James, D. (2023). Employers and educators address green skills and ‘retrofit revolution’ training challenges – Local London Skills Providers. [Online]. Available at: https://www.locallondonskillsproviders.com/news/employers-and-educators-address-green-skills-and-retrofit-revolution-training-challenges/ [Accessed 19 August 2024].

Thought Leadership. (2024). Keir Starmer launches Skills England to repair ‘broken’ training system: What can we learn from Wales? | FE News. [Online]. Available at: https://www.fenews.co.uk/exclusive/keir-starmer-launches-skills-england-to-repair-broken-training-system-what-can-we-learn-from-wales/ [Accessed 19 August 2024].

Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth. [Online]. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/skills-england-to-transform-opportunities-and-drive-growth

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