A state-of-the-art Green Technology Centre was officially opened at NCG’s Kidderminster College last week.
The £4million Centre on Stourport Road is the future of industry training for Construction and Automotive skills, providing students with an immersive and hands-on learning experience with sustainability embedded into curriculum.
Designed and developed in direct response to the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and the region’s increasing need for green skills and technologies, this cutting-edge innovation hub aligns with the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP)’s strategic vision to prioritise sustainability in the region, and Kidderminster College's own commitment to Net Zero.
The official launch event on Thursday 12 June brought together industry leaders, educators and students for an exclusive behind the scenes tour and a morning of networking and discussions about the future of sustainability in construction.
The Centre was officially opened by Wayne Hemingway, renowned designer and founder of Hemingway Design. Having worked in partnership with NEW Masterplanning and Urban Movement to develop a bold vision for the future of Kidderminster town centre in 2021, and with a vision for Kidderminster in 2040 as one of sustainability, creativity, and inclusivity, Wayne was the perfect choice to open Kidderminster College’s visionary new facility.
Guests heard first-hand from college staff and students about the advanced technologies that have been introduced to the college, before the official opening ceremony.
Principal Cat Lewis spoke about the critical role the facility will play in supporting young people and employers in Kidderminster and the wider region with the transition to greener, cleaner technologies within industry.
She also spoke about its approach to inclusivity in the sector, saying: “Here at Kidderminster College, we are committed to being part of a cultural change. This centre will play a vital role in encouraging and empowering more women to enter and thrive in construction and technical careers, as well as those with additional needs, and we are proud to be a part of that shift.”
Halford’s Head of Skills Development, Dan McCann also addressed the crowd, touching on how sustainability is now at the heart of skills for the future and adapting to that is crucial for every sector. Dan said: "Colleges like Kidderminster are not just places of learning, they are engines of transformation. You are equipping the next generation with the skills, the mindset, and the adaptability to thrive in a world that’s changing faster than ever.”
Students were on hand to show guests just how they’re benefitting from the new facilities in their daily lessons. Vehicle Respraying student Ethan Taylor said: “The Green Technology Centre makes me feel more prepared for the future thanks to its excellent facilities, such as spray rooms, mixing booths, and more. It really feels like working in a real work environment.”
Motor Vehicle student Ollie Fowler added: “My favourite thing about studying at the GTC is the staff. They are dedicated to their work, always willing to help, and very knowledgeable.”
Whilst the focus of the building is equipping students with the skills and tools they will need for a career in sustainable construction and automotive engineering, the building also incorporates sustainable features such as solar panels, water-saving systems, and light sensors to further reduce the college’s environmental impact.
NCG thanks the UK Government’s Getting Building Fund with Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), the Department for Education Local Skills Improvement Fund, and Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce for supporting this investment.