City College Plymouth has launched its groundbreaking Engineering & Nuclear Skills building, developed in partnership with Babcock International Group, and the National College for Nuclear. This cutting-edge facility further solidifies the College as Plymouth’s anchor institution for skills, leading the way in upskilling the region’s workforce and boosting social mobility through world-class training and education.
The Engineering & Nuclear Skills building features state-of-the-art resources designed to meet the needs of the ever-evolving energy and defence sectors. From immersive classrooms equipped with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology to advanced mechatronics labs and fabrication workshops, the new facility offers a unique and innovative environment where students can hone the crucial skills that industries need today.
Chief Executive, Jackie Grubb said: “City College is at the forefront of driving growth and boosting social mobility by equipping our community with the crucial skills needed in key sectors like defence and energy security. Our partnership with the Babcock International Group and the National College for Nuclear is key to advancing expertise in the nuclear industry.
Jackie continued: “Through our collaboration with leading employers and colleges such as Bridgwater & Taunton, we’re ensuring that Plymouth’s future workforce receives the specialised training necessary to thrive. Together with our strategic partners, we’re dedicated to continuously upskilling our community, enhancing social mobility, and strengthening the nuclear industry’s capabilities.”
The new building will also support the upskilling of Babcock International Group’s workforce, contributing to national and international defence programmes, including the UK’s submarine maintenance and AUKUS programme.
As Plymouth aims to grow its population, City College is committed to providing the skills necessary to support the city’s future.
Jackie added: “The new Engineering & Nuclear Skills building is just the beginning. Our vision is to make City College a powerhouse for STEM education and training. We are deeply committed to providing the best possible learning environments in partnership with industry, ensuring that our students are equipped for success.”
The College recently invested more than £2.5 million of grant funding in its facilities, including a mechatronics lab, immersive classrooms, and a fabrication workshop, as well as modernised health, science and business areas. These investments continue to establish the College’s mission of offering groundbreaking teaching environments in collaboration with industry partners, equipping both students and the current workforce with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving job market.
Photo caption: (From L to R) David Lockwood, CEO of Babcock International Group, Jackie Grubb, Chief Executive of City College Plymouth and Defence Minister, The Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP