News
Published in: Wind, Press Releases
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September 23, 2025 - 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.
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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 offshore wind 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.”
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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 www.nepo.org.
Watch the partnership video to see training in action, here: Watch the New College Durham & Wind Academy Partnership Video.
Media Contact
For further information, samples or imagery please contact:
Barbora Gray: barbora@karolmarketing.com / 0191 265 7765
About NEPO:
Established in 1976 in collaboration with North East local authorities, NEPO works with UK public sector partners to deliver a program of strategic procurement and related initiatives, that promote positive outcomes for a diverse range of stakeholders.
NEPO also works closely with public sector suppliers to boost competitive skills, signpost tendering opportunities, embed social value and improve procurement processes.
NEPO’s e-procurement platform, Open (www.open-uk.org) streamlines the procurement process for public sector buyers and suppliers.
Find out more at www.nepo.org
About New College Durham:
New College Durham is a leading further education provider in the North East, delivering high-quality vocational and academic training that meets employer needs and drives regional economic growth. The College inspires learners of all backgrounds to unlock their potential and pursue rewarding careers, focusing on professional, technical, and lifelong education. Recognised for its innovative approach and academic excellence, New College Durham is committed to shaping future-ready individuals and contributing to sustainable community development locally and beyond.
About The Wind Academy:
The Wind Academy is a specialist offshore wind training provider based in Blyth, North East England. Founded by experienced industry professionals, it delivers hands-on, industry-leading courses designed to equip the next generation of clean energy technicians with practical skills required in the offshore wind sector. The Academy’s state-of-the-art facilities include a full-sized, modified wind turbine for real-world training scenarios. Offering Global Wind Organisation (GWO) accredited courses and tailored technical training, The Wind Academy focuses on preparing learners to enter the rapidly growing offshore wind industry, supporting career progression and meeting the sector’s urgent demand for skilled workers. The Academy also actively supports learners’ transitions into employment through close ties with industry and its sister recruitment company.
