28th January 2025
Cornwall College St Austell has official launched the Green Construction Skills and Roofing Apprenticeship Academies, marking a transformative chapter in sustainable construction training in Cornwall.
With advanced facilities and tailored programmes, the academies are set to prepare future construction professionals, and the existing workforce, with essential skills in eco-friendly and energy-efficient building technologies, working alongside top employers in the region. 
During the official launch, attendees toured the college’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the Skills Centre’s advanced engineering workshops and EV labs, and explored spaces dedicated to training in ground source heat pumps, air source heat pumps, solar thermal systems, solar electrical systems and the roofing apprenticeship academy.
In addition to the newly created green course, the college also offers short courses to upskill local professionals in green energy systems and will soon offer Electric Charging Installation courses.
Head of Cornwall College St Austell, David Atkinson-Beaumont, highlighted the college’s pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future. He said: “As a community-focused college, we’re dedicated to meeting the needs of our local area while advancing a sustainable economy.”
David continued: “These initiatives are a key step in ensuring our workforce is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle the demands of a low-carbon future. Through strong partnerships with leading employers and our investment in modern facilities, we are preparing individuals to take the lead in the sustainable construction sector.”
Noah Law, MP for St Austell and Newquay, attended the launch and took part in the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, he was accompanied by Mayor of St Austell, Julian Young and Stacey Sleeman, head of Skills at Cornwall Council. 
Commenting on the new facilities, he said: “It’s fantastic to see Cornwall College St Austell taking such a proactive approach in shaping the future of construction in our region. These new academies will not only help meet the growing demand for sustainable building practices but also provide our young people and local workforce with the skills they need to thrive in a green economy.”
“I’m proud to support these efforts and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on the community and the environment,” Noah added.
The Green Construction Skills and Roofing Apprenticeship Academies will offer hands-on training in cutting-edge technologies and techniques, ensuring students gain practical experience that aligns with industry needs. 
The college’s role in leading the way in green skills training reinforces its mission to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for Cornwall and beyond.
The Green Construction Skills and Roofing Apprenticeship Academies is part of the Construction Skills Hub project which has received £3.3 million through the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, which is managed by Cornwall Council and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
To find out more about courses available at Cornwall College, visit the website.
