Northampton College awarded half a million pounds to invest in new technology for a “bold new chapter” in skills development

The funding, announced by the Office for Students (OfS), will see the college awarded a total of £539,371 to upgrade equipment and prepare students for the 21st century workplace.

Tyler Peterson | Wednesday 19th November 2025 5:08pm

Northampton College is one of the top-performing colleges in the country with around 10,000 students and a turnover of more than £40 million.

It offers a broad range of full-time and part-time courses by the Department for Education (DfE) and OfS.

Principal Jason Lancaster said: “It’s a bold new chapter in skills development that matches the ambition and drive of the brilliant businesses we continue to work with across Northamptonshire and the wider region.

“Coming on the back of the launch this week of our Future Skills Northamptonshire partnership with Moulton College and the University of Northampton, this funding underlines our commitment to reshaping how the county develops talent”, Mr Lancaster continued.

“This funding will allow us to purchase industry-standard equipment that will help to build the skills required for both academic success and future employment.”

Through the investment, the college will create and acquire new resources including:

·        A digital design laboratory for construction, engineering, and creative university level students.

·        New construction and engineering materials testing equipment.

·        Engineering and advanced manufacturing equipment for robotic welding, electronics, and automation systems.

·        Electric and hydrogen vehicle recharging equipment.

·        Film, television and music production equipment for creative performance and technical university level students.

Successful bidders demonstrated how they will address the government’s industrial strategy and priority sectors for growth to meet the needs of local employers and regional economies.

Furthermore, they also had to offer excellent value for money and support environmental and sustainability measures.

Skills Minister, Baroness Jacqui Smith said: “This government is committed to supporting colleges and universities as engines of opportunity and growth up and down the country.

“This cash boost from the government ensures young people are using the most up-to-date tech and facilities, helping them to secure a future”, Baroness Smith continued.

“It will help build towards the Prime Minister’s target of two thirds of young people taking a gold standard apprenticeship or heading to university by the age of 25.”

The investment forms part of an £88.5 million package allocated for the 2025-26 financial year which will help 60 institutions across the country to deliver courses to increase opportunities for students and support national growth, regional economies, and local employers.

For more information about Northampton College visit www.northamptoncollege.ac.uk

Photo credit: Northampton College.

More News Headlines