Centre Spotlight: North Hertfordshire College

We had the pleasure of attending the launch of North Hertfordshire College’s brand-new IMI-Approved campus for automotive learners. Set in the heart of Stevenage Town Centre (taking over what was the old indoor market for any locals), their new facilities support training in electric and hybrid vehicle technologies, advanced diagnostics and emerging vehicle systems, enabling learners to meet the challenges of a changing industry. This heavy investment in EV training reflects the greater emphasis placed on sustainability within the sector. 

This was made possible with investment from the national Government’s Towns Fund, secured by Stevenage Borough Council and the Stevenage Development Board, and is set to be a real asset to the town. Concerning the launch, Kit Davies, principal and CEO of North Hertfordshire College, said, “The event was a fantastic way to showcase how the new space aligns curriculum delivery with the skills needed in Hertfordshire’s construction trades and motor vehicle industries.” 

North Hertfordshire College was one of the first IMI TechSafe centres and is among the small number of IMI TechSafe centres in Hertfordshire. As such, the campus will help the college contribute to bridging skills gaps in Hertfordshire, while also supporting the skills pipeline locally and nationally. With the continuing increase in electric and hybrid vehicles, along with the growth in ADAS technologies, ensuring people are trained to work safely and competently on these emerging technologies is key to futureproofing the industry. 

As you can see from the pictures below, the college has created a dedicated, industry-standard space for students, apprentices, and adult learners to gain key motor vehicle skills. They also have extensive links within the motor vehicle industry which complements their comprehensive outreach activities, employer engagement programmes and careers initiatives that inspire the next generation of technicians and engineers. 

Not only was it inspiring to see the new campus, we also got to see some of the equipment being used by the apprentices. It was all very exciting and encouraging to see that the next generation are in good hands. 

“It’s fantastic to see our Motor Vehicle learners applying their knowledge to use state-of-the-art equipment at our Town Centre Campus. Our new facilities reflect the current and predicted industry needs and provides learners with access to the specialist equipment and unique learning experiences that will prepare them for their future careers in this evolving sector.

By combining outstanding facilities, a future-focused curriculum, meaningful employer partnerships, and the work we do with other external organisations, I am confident we will continue to make a significant contribution to the automotive sector.” Said Sam Sharpe, Head of Construction and Motor Vehicle at North Hertfordshire College."

We look forward to continuing to work with North Hertfordshire College and others like them in delivering top automotive training and highlighting the value of IMI TechSafe as an industry standard.