Middlesbrough College is developing a new online HNC qualification to address the skills shortages in the construction and built environment management sector. Following several other successful initiatives, Discover eLearning is delighted to have been selected as the development and creative lead for this project.
The North East is undergoing a huge transformation. The Sunderland Smart City Project aims to build a city that’s connected, innovative, and sustainable. Meanwhile, across the Tyne, modern skyscrapers are changing the Newcastle skyline.
Construction is a booming industry in the North East. Investing in construction has huge potential benefits for the local economy and employment opportunities. Employment projections estimate the Tees Valley construction sector will need 20% more managers by 2027.
Improving local education with the Strategic Development Fund
The Strategic Development Fund offers new opportunities for further education (FE) providers. It funds collaborative projects that improve local teaching and training facilities, as well as supporting innovation and growth.
As a North East-based online learning specialist, we’re delighted to work alongside two local education providers — Middlesbrough College and BIM Academy — to bring this project to life.
Collaborating to create meaningful learning
To develop a HNC that creates genuine value for North East learners and businesses, the college needed to consult with construction industry employers, as well as other Tees Valley partners. This collective approach ensures the course content meets current demands, and facilitates idea sharing and best practice.
Discover eLearning has previously worked for a Newcastle-based client, BIM Academy, which specialises in consultancy for modern construction project management. So they were the ideal partner to collaborate with on this HNC. They shared our passion and ambition for the project, and were delighted to come on board at an early stage.
The working relationship between Discover eLearning, Middlesbrough College, and BIM Academy has already achieved fantastic results. As well as creating outstanding educational content that satisfies all stakeholders — including students and the Department for Education — we can also find wider industry representation and receive more endorsements.
Local partnerships lead to local success
Working alongside local partners will help the North East become a thriving development hub. Young people here can achieve successful, fulfilling careers in construction, building a base for future talent and growth.
This exciting new project is another milestone in the continuing relationship between Discover eLearning and Middlesbrough College. In 2018, we supported the college to launch their first fully online distance learning Access to HE in Health programme, which went on to become runner up at the 2019 Learning Technology Awards.
Then, via the College Collaboration Fund, together we developed a student profile builder tool called SkillSpace which was demonstrated at the BETT show in 2022.