North East Mayor Kim McGuinness is set to invest £8.1 million in a major expansion of post-16 education and training across the region, creating more than 1,600 additional learner places to meet rising demand from young people.
The funding proposal, which will be considered by Cabinet, forms part of the Post-16 Sufficiency Capital Programme and would support 14 projects spanning all seven local authority areas in the North East.
If approved, the programme will enable colleges, sixth forms and academies to increase capacity through upgraded teaching facilities, specialist learning environments and enhanced support for learners with additional needs.
Charlotte Carpenter, Director of Skills, Inclusion & Public Service Reform at the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, said:
“This investment gives all our young people the opportunity for the education they deserve.
“It's a direct response to rising demand for post-16 education and training places, and helps build the specialist facilities our colleges and schools need.
“By investing right across the North East, we’re making sure no young person is held back from the skills, training or support that can shape their future.”
The investment will support a range of capital improvements designed to increase learner capacity and enhance educational outcomes, including:
- Refurbishment of existing buildings
- Conversion of under-utilised spaces
- Development of specialist vocational facilities and workshops
- Expansion of SEND provision
- Installation of modular teaching accommodation where required
The programme is expected to deliver at least 1,638 additional education and training places across the 2027/28 and 2028/29 academic years.
The investment comes as forecasts indicate a significant increase in the North East's population of 16 to 18-year-olds over the coming years. Regional leaders warn that without additional capacity, some young people could struggle to access suitable post-16 opportunities.
Those most at risk include learners with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), lower prior attainment, or other barriers to education and training.
The programme supports the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority's ambition to create a "Home of Real Opportunity", helping more young people gain access to high-quality education while building the skilled workforce needed to support long-term economic growth across the region.
Projects are expected to strengthen the region's education infrastructure and ensure more young people can access the skills, qualifications and support needed to succeed in future careers.
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