VELUX, in partnership with Sunderland College, has announced the official launch of the VELUX Skills Academy at the Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (HICSA) in Sunderland.
This sector-leading initiative aims to tackle the UK’s critical shortage of skilled window installers and tradespeople by providing hands-on, industry-led training in roofing, window installation and smart home technologies. The Academy is co-located within HICSA at Riverside Sunderland, a £20million state-of-the-art training facility managed by Sunderland College and the first of 10 planned across the country.
VELUX is also working with developer igloo Regeneration to deliver homes in Sunderland inspired by the Living Places Copenhagen model – a prototype for healthy, low-carbon neighbourhoods. These homes will form part of Sunderland City Council’s ambitious urban regeneration plans for Riverside Sunderland.
Alex O’dell (pictured), VELUX vice president GB&I, commented: “Our vision is to empower the next generation with the skills and training needed to build healthy and resilient homes. The VELUX Training Academy is designed to support people at every stage, from apprenticeships to employment, and shows our commitment to well-being and sustainable building materials and practices. We are proud to partner with HICSA and Living Places Sunderland, helping to train the workforce to build the homes of tomorrow.”
Ellen Thinnesen, chief executive of Education Partnership North East, which runs Sunderland College, said: “HICSA is trailblazing an innovative approach to skills training in the UK. The VELUX Skills Academy enhances our dynamic ecosystem of on-site education and industry partners, ensuring the workforce has access to the very best in practical training and career opportunities.”
