New £10m college in Stafford set to boost advanced manufacturing
Facility to focus on bridging critical skills gaps in advanced manufacturing
Last updated 14th Apr 2026
The Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) has been officially selected as one of four national Advanced Manufacturing Technical Excellence Colleges (TECs) by the Department for Education (DfE).
With this designation, NSCG is set to lead the charge in developing a skilled workforce for the advanced manufacturing sector, aligning with the government's Industrial Strategy.
The establishment of a £10 million Advanced Manufacturing Hub in Stafford is central to this initiative.
Expected to be operational by 2028/29, the hub will be situated next to the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Institute of Technology on Castle Street.
The curriculum will include frontier technologies such as automation, robotics, Industry 4.0, additive manufacturing, and clean energy.
NSCG aims to be a national hub of excellence, collaborating with industry leaders like GE Vernova, Siemens, and Hitachi, and fostering partnerships to enhance expertise regionally and beyond.
Craig Hodgson, Principal & Chief Executive of NSCG, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are delighted that NSCG has been chosen to lead the development of a new cross-regional Technical Excellence College. This achievement reflects the strength of our collaborative approach and supports from local MPs and major industry partners.”
Leigh Ingham, MP for Stafford, shared his pride: "Creating opportunities for young people in advanced manufacturing opens up access to well-paid, skilled careers in one of the most exciting sectors in the country. I'm proud to have worked with NSCG and other MPs to make this happen."
NSCG currently supports 1,150 learners in advanced manufacturing programmes, partnering with 240 businesses in the sector.
With 92% of their students progressing into related employment, apprenticeships, or further study, the college remains committed to driving lasting opportunities and economic growth in the region.
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