Green skills training centre opens in Jarrow

A new South Tyneside facility is aiming to support the region’s transition to a greener economy while opening pathways into employment.

Staffpower Group has officially opened a new green skills training centre on Bede Industrial Estate in Jarrow, designed to support the North East’s growing demand for low-carbon and construction-related skills. 

The 8573sq ft facility will work with employers and public sector partners to develop practical skills that align with regional growth priorities.

Bosses say the centre will offer fully funded training in areas including loft insulation, solar panel installation, heat pumps and asbestos removal, with capacity to train up to 65 people at any one time. 

Participants will also be supported to gain Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards at no cost, helping them move quickly into employment.

Martin Harrison, business development manager at Staffpower Group, said: “We’re incredibly proud that the Staffpower Training Centre is now open for business.

“The state-of-the-art campus marks a major investment for Staffpower Group and reflects our ongoing commitment to help people from all backgrounds secure skilled, future-proofed careers.

“By delivering fully-funded training in key green technologies and construction disciplines, our aim is to help develop the skilled workforce required to build and retrofit the UK’s homes of tomorrow. 

“We’re thrilled to be playing a part in strengthening the region’s economy and supporting the North East’s journey towards net-zero.”

Backed by funding from Government, the North East Combined Authority and industry partners, the centre supports ambitions to place the region at the forefront of the UK’s Net Zero workforce.

Councillor Martin Gannon, deputy mayor of the North East, added: “Thanks to the mayor’s New Deal for North East Workers, our region is fast becoming recognised as a real trailblazer when it comes to developing green skills and clean-energy innovation, and new developments like this campus will be key to ensuring we continue building on this success as we deliver the mayor’s ambition for a green energy revolution.

"It gives me great pride to have officially opened the first Staffpower Training Centre, which will support people across our region to gain the skills needed for the good, secure jobs of the future, while ensuring our region continues to play a key role in helping the government realise its ambition of creating 400,000 net-zero jobs by 2030.”

Councillor Tracey Dixon, leader of South Tyneside Council, added: “This new facility is a fantastic addition to South Tyneside and aligns perfectly with our Build a Stronger South Tyneside campaign.

“It will open up opportunities for local residents to gain new skills, access high-quality training and take on good jobs in growing sectors.

“Not only does it support our ambitions around sustainability and net-zero, but it also contributes directly to our vision of ensuring inclusive economic growth that benefits our communities.”

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