New College Durham and The Wind Academy have joined forces through NEPO’s External Training solution to deliver specialist offshore wind turbine training tailored for the public sector. NEPO connects suppliers and public sector organisations across the UK through its efficient procurement frameworks. This strategic partnership is helping to build local skills and career pathways, supporting the North East’s ambition to become a leading offshore wind hub.

The partnership launched in February 2024, following a significant £1.6 million funding allocation for New College Durham, specifically designated for Skills Bootcamps in wind energy, delivered in collaboration with training provider The Wind Academy.

Since then, the collaboration has rapidly developed and delivered demand-led courses focused on emerging low-carbon sectors, providing clear and accessible pathways into sustainable, high-value roles within the offshore wind industry.

Strong Impact and Workforce Development

Since the partnership launched in 2024, over 850 students have been trained through this specialist offshore wind programme. An average of 85% of learners reported they had progressed into employment, demonstrating the programme’s effectiveness in facilitating workforce development.

Nearly all learners are self-employed, successfully securing new contracts across the wind sector. Key employers have taken on many new recruits directly from this training contract, including SPIE Wind Connect, Ventus Energy, Endiprev and Briggs Marine. Employer engagement remains strong, with a wide range of local and national companies actively supporting recruitment and skills development efforts.

Training is delivered at The Wind Academy’s dedicated facilities in Blyth, which feature industry-leading, purpose-built environments. These include a specially modified, full-sized wind turbine, providing trainees with essential hands-on experience in realistic and safe settings. The programme has been extended until 2029 and it is available to any public sector organisation to procure through NEPO’s External Training framework.

Carl Telford, Professional Services Lead at NEPO, said: “The aim of our External Training solution is to support the UK public sector in skills development across a broad range of disciplines. NEPO is very proud that this project has been able to fuel the North East's Green Workforce with 75% employment progression rate, setting a powerful example of how targeted training can meet industry needs and transform young people’s lives.”

Geoff Briggs, Managing Director at The Wind Academy, said: “Our goal is to make wind turbine training accessible and practical for every public sector organisation looking to upskill their workforce. We’re committed to delivering industry-standard courses that prepare technicians for the challenges of offshore wind projects.”

Colleen Peters, Vice Principal Business Development, Apprenticeships and Productivity at New College Durham, said: “This partnership has been instrumental in enabling us to respond swiftly to sector demands, especially in offshore wind. It’s helped us extend our reach and provide learners with real pathways into sustainable, high-value roles.”

Learn More and See Training in Action

For more information about NEPO’s External Training solution and how public sector organisations can access specialist wind turbine training through The Wind Academy, please visit NEPO's Extern
Watch the partnership video to see training in action, here: Watch the New College Durham & Wind Academy Partnership Video.