BRIDGWATER & Taunton College (BTC) has been awarded £2.5 million from the Department for Education as part of a consortium of further education and training providers to deliver skills to the South West.

The college is leading the consortium alongside the Somerset Chamber of Commerce and the Devon and Plymouth Chamber.

They will act as a catalyst to align educational provision with business needs in the region.

Consortium members include City College Plymouth, Exeter College, Petroc, South Devon College, Strode College, Yeovil College, Focus Training and SWATPRO (DSTPN).

They have been awarded a share of £2.5m from the Department for Education two projects 'The Heart of the South West Collaboration for Success', and 'Green Skills for the Future'.

Members of the consortium will collaborate to deliver regionally significant projects which focus on delivering skills and training in construction, automotive, digital, engineering and advanced propulsion.

Andy Berry, principal and CEO of Bridgwater & Taunton College said: “This is a fantastic initiative, we have significant skills shortages across the South West which this consortium aims to address.

“Members of the consortium will collaborate to create exciting opportunities for people within our region, deliver skills our employers need to drive prosperity and development.”

Emma Rawlings, Somerset Chamber of Commerce, CEO said: “This has been needed for a long time, these projects will bring businesses and education partners together to deliver skills this region needs.

"Educational establishments have a challenge to keep pace with industry needs, this fund and these projects will unlock the capacity to achieve this. I’m looking forward to seeing the impact on our local and regional economy.”

For more information visit www.btc.ac.uk.