Abingdon & Witney College Awarded Council Funding to Boost Local Skills and Support Green Initiatives

West Oxfordshire District Council has awarded significant funding to Abingdon and Witney College to help address local skills needs and support green skills training. The funding aims to provide valuable training opportunities that will benefit local residents and support the Government’s goal of achieving net zero emissions.

Jacqui Canton, Principal and Chief Executive of Abingdon and Witney College, shared:

"We are thrilled to launch this initiative, offering free courses that will empower individuals in West Oxfordshire with essential skills in both the care and green technology sectors.

At the heart of our education is the vision 'Be You Be Extraordinary,' where everyone achieves more than they believe is possible. This initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing employability and supporting a sustainable future for our community."

The funding for this initiative comes from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), focusing on two key areas: essential job training and green skills development.

Abingdon and Witney College will use the funding to provide free courses in essential areas like health and care, and hospitality, along with specialised training in green skills. The College aims to help at least 100 individuals in West Oxfordshire gain certificates and awards in care and hospitality. Additionally, at least 130 residents will have the opportunity to complete courses in green skills, equipping them for jobs in the growing green economy.

Cllr Duncan Enright, Executive Member for Economic Development, said:

“We’re really excited about this funding and the huge difference it will make for our communities.

This is a significant step forward in our mission to boost local job opportunities, bridge the gap in skills training, and strengthen our local towns' economies. By offering these training opportunities, we aim to help people gain valuable skills that will lead to better jobs and therefore, a more robust local economy.

Additionally, the focus on green skills is a crucial part of our effort to work towards a more sustainable future for everyone.”

To find out more about the courses available, please click here.