The announcement is part of the Government’s new Construction Technical Excellence Colleges (CTECs) programme, which will see ten specialist centres established across England to address the sector’s severe skills shortage. One CTEC has been designated for each of the nine English regions, with The Bedford College Group confirmed as the tenth – a unique cross-regional hub that will coordinate and support programme activities both regionally and nationally.

The initiative aims to train over 40,000 new construction professionals by 2029, spanning trades such as bricklaying, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and general building. With over 35,000 vacancies currently in the sector, this investment in skills is critical to delivering the Government’s target of 1.5 million new homes, alongside schools, hospitals and other infrastructure.

Supporting the Oxford To Cambridge Growth Corridor and beyond

Operating at the heart of the Oxford–Cambridge Growth Corridor, The Bedford College Group plays a pivotal role in equipping the region’s workforce with the skills needed to deliver on its growth ambitions. This cross-regional designation will allow the Group to share its expertise and resources well beyond its immediate geography, ensuring skills for the future are developed in line with the needs of both local economies and the national construction industry.

The Group already delivers industry-leading provision, from its Modern Methods of Construction Centre in Bedford to state-of-the-art facilities at Tresham College in Corby, and has strong employer partnerships on major projects including the Luton Airport Parkway runway works and the planned Universal Studios development.

Yiannis Koursis OBE, CEO of The Bedford College Group, commented:

“This recognition reflects the dedication, expertise, and ambition of our staff, students and employer partners across Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and beyond. The construction sector is central to delivering the homes, infrastructure and sustainable communities our country needs. By working in partnership with other colleges, training providers and industry leaders, we will help equip the next generation with the skills, knowledge and experience that employers demand – from cutting-edge technical training to real-world, site-based learning.”

With this appointment, The Bedford College Group will play a central role in building the skilled workforce that will shape Britain’s built environment for decades to come – driving economic growth and innovation across the Oxford–Cambridge Growth Corridor and the wider UK.

For more information on The Bedford College Group’s construction training offer, visit bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk.