Constructing Low Carbon Lancashire
Project overview
The Constructing Low-Carbon Lancashire Project provided a direct response to the ambitious ten-point Green Industrial Revolution plan outlined by the Prime Minister in November 2020. This exciting project focused on low carbon technologies related to new-build dwellings and the retro-fitting of existing dwellings, particularly in relation to heating and insulation.
An Introduction to the Constructing Low Carbon Lancashire Project (Video)
Delivery partnership
The project was led by Preston College working in collaboration with seven Lancashire colleges. It saw the creation of Building Services Skills Zones at Preston College, a Plumbing Technology Centre at Blackburn College, Insulation Technologies Zone at Lancaster and Morecambe College, Green Initiative Centre at West Lancashire College and the updating of curriculum resources and programmes at Blackpool and The Fylde and Burnley Colleges. Nelson and Colne College Group and Runshaw College supported engagement and curriculum development, with a view to phasing in delivery as employer demand increased.
Project aims
Addressing a recognised industry need, in the context of the Lancashire region, the project aimed to deliver the skills, qualifications and competences needed to support the meeting of ambitious targets in the Climate Change Committee’s Net Zero Report, the Intergovernmental Plan on Climate Change (UK 2050 targets) and the Government’s Ten-Point Green Industrial Revolution Plan, through positive and effective collaboration. This collaboration of colleges was committed to providing excellence in training, and a consistency of high quality provision, ensuring that large employers and their supply chains are able to effectively respond to emerging technologies in delivering against the greener homes agenda.
Results
1) Work with college partners to increase construction sector engagement in curriculum review, skills gaps identification, development of modular/unitised curriculum (to address skills gaps), short course awareness-raising of the low carbon agenda and relevant upskilling programmes.
2) Create state-of-the-art training facilities across Lancashire that enable learners to understand low-carbon technologies, gain experience in these technologies, achieve relevant qualifications and develop their skills in line with modern construction practice and building materials.
3) Identify and support 30 teaching staff increase their skills and knowledge of environmental technologies within the construction sector, with an emphasis on low-carbon construction.
4) Deliver bespoke training modules to over 2000 individuals in a 5 year period, working with a broad range of employer partners in the development and accreditation of innovative curriculum.