Half a million pounds of Government funding will upgrade equipment and prepare students at Northampton College for life in the 21st century workplace, paving the way for a “bold new chapter” in skills development.
The funding, announced by the Office for Students, will see the college awarded a total of £539,371.
Through this investment, Northampton College will create and acquire new industry-standard resources including:
- a new digital design laboratory for construction, engineering and creative university level students
- new construction and engineering materials testing equipment
- engineering and advanced manufacturing equipment for robotic welding, electronics and automation systems
- electric vehicle and hydrogen vehicle electrification equipment
- film, television and music production equipment for creative performance and technical university level students.
Northampton College Principal Jason Lancaster said: “Coming on the back of the launch this week of our Futureskills Northamptonshire partnership with Moulton College and the University of Northampton, this funding underlines our commitment to reshaping how the county develops talent, with joined-up study pathways from entry level to postgraduate study, training that is aligned to local employer demand and a stronger, more inclusive workforce for Northamptonshire.
"The college is working with employers across multiple industries to deliver a range of vital skills needs and qualifications to support students entering the workforce. This funding will allow us to purchase industry-standard equipment that will help to build the skills required for both academic success and future employment.
“It’s a bold new chapter in skills development that matches the ambition and drive of the brilliant businesses we continue to work with across Northamptonshire and the wider region.”
The funding forms part of an £88.5million package allocated for the 2025-26 financial year and will help 60 institutions across the country to deliver courses that will increase opportunities for students and support national growth, regional economies, and local employers.
Successful bids had to demonstrate how they will address the government’s industrial strategy and priority sectors for growth or meet the needs of local employers and regional economies. The successful bids also had to offer excellent value for money and support environmental and sustainability measures.
Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said: “This government is committed to supporting colleges and universities as engines of opportunity and growth up and down the country.
“This cash boost from government ensures young people are using the most up-to-date tech and facilities, helping them to secure a future in the well-paying, highly skilled jobs that are crucial for our Plan for Change.
“It will help build towards the Prime Minister’s target of two thirds of young people taking a gold standard apprenticeship or heading to university by the age of 25 – driving prosperity for families in every town and city.”
