Leicester College is constructing a new Electrotechnical Workshop and Test and Inspection Lab at its Freemen’s Park Campus in the city.
The new facility will provide T Level, Technical Level 2, and evening Level 2 and 3 programme learners with greater exposure to a broader range of industry-standard materials, tools and equipment, significantly enhancing their knowledge, skills and behaviours in preparation for employment.
The building of the new facility, refurbishing an existing sports hall, is scheduled to be fully operational by September 2025.
Nick Allen, programme area manager at Leicester College, said: “It’s widely accepted that the UK electrical industry is experiencing an increase in demand for skilled electricians but faces a significant skills shortage.
“By establishing this new facility, Leicester College is providing access for learners to state-of-the-art electrical equipment that will boost their expertise and, consequently, their employment opportunities.”
Darren Roome, director of curriculum – construction at Leicester College, said: “The new Electrotechnical facility will provide the next generation of students with access to excellent teaching, learning and assessment opportunities.
“Equipped with a purpose-built workshop and the latest test and inspection technologies, the experienced teaching team will be well-positioned to deliver an enriched educational experience. It’s an exciting development for both staff and students.”
The new labs will be equipped with modern training and assessment rigs supplied by Test Rigs UK Ltd.
Phillip Hague, company director at Test Rigs UK, added: “Test Rigs UK Ltd are so privileged to work in partnership with Leicester College to produce and supply these products.
“The training and assessment rigs will allow the next generation of learners to practise and train in a safe, simulated environment allowing realistic testing and fault-finding practices to be learned and hopefully taking those skills with them into their future work as electricians in the industry.
“Test Rigs UK Ltd was set up for this very reason and to be a major player in this industry, and to be recognised by such an establishment like Leicester College is an honour. We look forward to seeing the learners in action on these rigs.”
