GBSIoT secures funding for Higher Technical Qualifications

12th December 2023

The Greater Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology (GBSIoT) is thrilled to announce its success in winning Higher Technical Education Skills Funding from the Department for Education (DFE).

The awarded funding, totalling an impressive £832,000, will be shared among three educational institutions within the GBSIoT network including lead partner Solihull College & University Centre.

The Higher Technical Education Skills Fund 2, a key initiative from the Department for Education, aims to empower educational partners to provide higher technical qualifications (HTQ) and bolster the growth of level 4 and 5 qualifications, with a particular focus on the engineering, digital, and construction sectors.

picture of the outside of the GBSIoT

Nancy Buckley, Vice Principal for Business, Growth, Skills and Partnerships at Solihull College & University Centre commented: “As the Lead college for the GBSIoT we were proud to steer this bid securing £544K of the funding into growing HTQs in Digital, Engineering and Construction subject areas for Solihull College & University Centre. Collaborations like the GBSIoT allow us to use our expertise to benefit all of the partners involved.”

The allocated funds will play a pivotal role in enhancing the capital investment, staff development and employer engagement across the colleges.

Michael Burke, Operations Director at GBSIoT, commented: “This award is a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit of GBSIoT and its partner institutions. We are excited to leverage this funding to propel the growth of higher technical qualifications in the region, especially in such key sectors as engineering, digital, and construction.”

Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are central to GBSIoT’s mission, encompassing a range of specialised programs that provide students with hands-on, industry-relevant skills. These qualifications bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of their chosen professions.

The Higher Technical Education Skills Fund 2 win solidifies GBSIoT’s position as a leader in shaping the future of technical education, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving professional landscape.

Find out more about the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Institute of Technology GBSIoT