JTL, an independent apprenticeship provider in the electrical and plumbing trades, is set to open a new state-of-the-art training hub in Preston.

Located in Cable House, Frenchwood, Preston Training Centre will offer new facilities designed to provide apprenticeships in both electrical and plumbing. Both of these are areas in which there has been skills shortages in recent years, the firm claimed.

With the Lancashire Local Skills Improvement Plan identifying these occupations as priorities for the region, backed by data from the Electrical Contractors Association showing low numbers of apprenticeship starts, Preston Training Centre aligns with JTL’s mission to meet the demands of local employers.

Read more: Preston Bus chief on ‘tough time of city centre buses’, fare deals and cutbacks

JTL Preston will integrate training on green skills, for example electric vehicle charging techniques, solar PV installation and battery storage, with the aim of preparing apprentices for the future and the need for changing skills.

Previously a call centre for Virgin Media, Cable House is soon to be refurbished and will feature industry standard workshops, teaching rooms and exam preparation resources.

Initially, it will offer four electrical courses and one plumbing course, training 256 electrical and 64 plumbing apprentices over a four-year apprenticeship cycle, with the potential for further expansion.

The centre is also supporting the creation of 12 training officer and tutor roles and is set to welcome its first cohort of apprentices in early 2025.

Chris Claydon, chief executive of JTL, said: “The launch of our Preston Training Centre is a pivotal moment for JTL and the local community. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities and fostering partnerships with local employers, we aim to provide high-quality apprenticeship training that directly address the specific skills needs of the region.

“Preston is a key location for us to expand due it being at the heart of Lancashire’s economic development. JTL Preston will play a crucial role in training the next generation of skilled professionals to contribute to a more sustainable future in the building services engineering sector.”

Subscribe: Keep in touch directly with the latest headlines from Blog Preston, join our WhatsApp channel and subscribe for our twice-a-week email newsletter. Both free and direct to your phone and inbox.

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines