New retrofit courses launched to help address skills gap

A new series of retrofit courses has been launched by the North East Institute of Technology (NEIoT).

Designed through collaboration between education and industry, the three courses will train the next generation of retrofit advisers, assessors and coordinators. 

The courses are available for applicants who are unemployed and want to reskill, as well as those who are already working in the sector and want to upskill. 

The courses will be delivered by NEIoT partner New College Durham, in collaboration with Middlesbrough College, East Durham College and Tyne Coast College.

Sharon Grant, director at NEIoT, said: “We are thrilled to be accepting applications for the new courses that will address the practical skills needs of the sector. 

“By integrating industry expertise, the courses align with industry standards and best practices while incorporating the latest developments in retrofitting technologies and methodologies. 

“The complex nature of the retrofit process and the roles required to deliver to a high standard presents a substantial opportunity for people across the North East and Tees Valley, and it’s exciting to be part of the journey.”

The courses are fully funded or part funded through Skills Bootcamp and CITB funding, depending on employment status or employer size. 

The retrofit coordinator and assessor qualifications are accredited by ABBE, and the adviser course is accredited by City & Guilds.

Commenting on the collaboration between industry and education, Darush Dodds, corporate affairs and ESG director at Esh Group, said: “These courses have been meticulously developed and designed with industry partners at the fore.

"Therefore employers – be that social housing providers, local authorities or those in the supply chain – can be confident that their employees will gain a high-quality, accredited learning experience and become skilled retrofit professionals ready for the job at hand.”