Abingdon & Witney College awarded funding to deliver affordable Net Zero skills training

Abingdon & Witney College is proud to announce the launch of a major new project that will significantly improve access to green skills training across Oxfordshire. Supported by funding from the Midlands Net Zero Hub, the College’s Net Zero Skills Hub is now offering key renewable energy and retrofit courses at substantially discounted rates - making vital low-carbon training more affordable for local tradespeople, jobseekers, and career changers.

This funding forms part of a wider regional effort to support the UK’s transition to Net Zero by increasing the number of people qualified in areas such as renewable energy installation, energy efficiency, and low-carbon heating. By reducing financial barriers to training, the project aims to build capacity within the local workforce and support businesses looking to expand into emerging green technologies.

Funded training opportunities now available

The following courses are now open for enrolment at reduced rates:

• Solar PV Installation & Maintenance
  £700 → £350 after 50% funding
  A practical programme designed for qualified electricians seeking to add Solar PV systems to their services.
• Heat Pump Installation Course
  £795 → £295 after £500 funding
  Ideal for plumbers and heating engineers looking to upskill in low-carbon heating technologies.
• Level 2 Understanding Domestic Retrofit
  £700 → £350 after 50% funding
  Open to anyone interested in retrofit careers or build their understanding on this topic. Some learners may also be eligible to study for free, subject to age, employment status and income criteria.

These courses are delivered at the College’s dedicated Net Zero Skills Hub, where learners receive hands-on, industry-led training aligned with current industry standards.

Supporting Oxfordshire’s Net Zero ambitions

The new funded offer strengthens the College’s commitment to supporting the county’s climate ambitions by equipping residents and trades with the practical skills needed for energy-efficient upgrades and renewable technology installations. Demand for trained professionals in solar PV, heat pumps and retrofit is rapidly increasing, and this project provides local people with accessible routes into these growing fields.

Will Gibbs, Construction Skills Project Lead at Abingdon & Witney College, said:

“This funding enables us to remove barriers to training and open up vital opportunities for people to develop skills that will shape the future of the construction and energy sectors. Whether individuals are looking to upskill, reskill, or explore a new career path, these courses provide a strong stepping stone into the expanding net zero workforce.”

Find out more

To learn more about the funded courses, check eligibility, or enquire about booking, please contact:
📩 netzerohub@abingdon-witney.ac.uk