Tyne North Training’s new Engineering Academy has attracted an oversubscribed first intake, with 14 learners set to begin the employer-led programme this September.
Delivered in partnership with Tyne Metropolitan College, the Academy has been created to tackle the growing engineering skills shortage across the North East. The programme provides young people with a direct route into engineering careers while helping employers develop the skilled workforce needed for the future.
Employers Helping to Shape Future Talent
Alongside welcoming its first cohort, Tyne North Training is launching a new employer-led Engineering Working Group.
The group will bring together engineering businesses from across the region to help shape the Academy and ensure learners develop the skills employers need most. The inaugural meeting will take place in October.
Participating employers will play an active role in the programme by offering:
- Work experience opportunities
- Industry insight and guest sessions
- Candidate reviews and feedback
- Guaranteed interviews for learners
This collaborative approach will help ensure the Academy remains closely aligned with industry requirements and employer demand.
Practical Skills for Real Engineering Careers
The Academy combines technical training with hands-on workplace experience, giving learners the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to succeed in the engineering sector.
Training will cover:
- Machining
- CAD
- Electrical systems
- Mechanical maintenance
- Fabrication and welding
Learners will also develop essential employability skills, including interview preparation, workplace behaviours and professional communication.
Responding to Demand from Young People and Industry
The strong response from prospective learners highlights growing demand for practical pathways that connect education directly with employment.
By working in partnership with employers, the Academy aims to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled, work-ready engineers to support the North East’s manufacturing, energy and offshore industries.
James McGowen, Training Manager at Tyne North Training, said:
“The response to the launch of our Engineering Academy has been fantastic, with our first cohort filling quickly and demonstrating the appetite young people have for practical engineering careers.
“We’re equally excited to establish our Engineering Working Group, giving employers a direct voice in shaping the programme and helping ensure learners leave with the skills, experience and behaviours businesses are looking for.
“It’s a genuine partnership between education and industry that will benefit both learners and employers across the North East.”
Looking Ahead
Applications for the 2027/28 Engineering Academy intake are expected to open later this year.
Tyne North Training is encouraging engineering employers interested in joining the Engineering Working Group or supporting the programme to get in touch.
