For almost 60 years, Sunderland Engineering Training Association (Seta) has been developing the next generation of engineers and technicians for employers across the North East and beyond.
Seta is an independent specialist engineering training provider, registered charity and proud member of GTA England. Group Training Associations provide a unique model of training delivery, developing and delivering outstanding training for industry, by industry. This employer-led approach ensures apprentices develop the technical skills, behaviours and workplace standards that businesses genuinely need.
As a not-for-profit organisation, Seta reinvests all surplus income directly into training facilities, equipment and learner development. This ensures apprentices and employers benefit from industry-standard resources that reflect modern engineering workplaces. Recent investments include two industrial robots, a collaborative robot (cobot) and Haas CNC machining centres, providing apprentices with experience of the latest technologies.
Seta is an ISO 9001 accredited organisation and an Ofsted ‘Good’ provider, with achievement rates consistently above national averages.
Our apprenticeship pathways span Electrical and Mechanical Maintenance and Fitting, Mechatronics, Machine Technician, Fabrication and Welding, Design Engineering, Health and Safety and Metrology, alongside Higher and Degree Apprenticeships with progression routes through to HNC and degree-level qualifications.
A key part of Seta is our investment in practical, hands-on learning. Apprentices train in small groups within their chosen discipline using dedicated resources, ensuring every learner gains maximum practical experience. For example, welding apprentices each have access to their own welding bay, whilst hydraulics and pneumatics learners train using individual hydraulic rigs.
Our block release model gives apprentices a strong start to their careers, developing not only technical competence but also an understanding of health and safety, timekeeping, workplace expectations, and professional behaviours before they return to the workplace with confidence.
Seta also provides employers with a fully funded recruitment service, including maths and engineering aptitude assessments, helping businesses attract and recruit high-quality engineering talent, reducing both time and cost associated with hiring apprentices.
The impact of Seta can be seen throughout the region, with many former apprentices now occupying senior leadership positions, technical specialist roles and business ownership positions. Many of our own instructors and trainers also began their careers as Seta apprentices.
Alongside apprenticeships, Seta delivers commercial training in electrical, mechanical, machining, fabrication and welding disciplines, as well as short courses in health and safety and bespoke employer-led training solutions.
Nearly six decades on, Seta remains committed to supporting employers with the skilled workforce they need today while developing the engineering professionals who will lead the industry tomorrow.
Contact : Suzanne.Jovanovic@seta.co.uk
