65,000 young people to be offered defence, clean energy and digital training

The UK government is providing £175 million to create 19 Technical Excellence Colleges that together are expected to train about 65,000 young people in defence, clean energy, digital and manufacturing fields. The Department for Education says nearly 600,000 additional workers may be needed in these sectors by 2030.

Around 65,000 young people will be able to train for roles in defence, clean energy, digital and manufacturing as part of a new round of government investment in colleges. The government will provide £175 million to set up 19 Technical Excellence Colleges across the UK. Ministers said the funding is meant to help build a pipeline of skilled workers for industries considered important to the country's future. Officials also referenced the conflict in the Middle East and energy supply concerns when describing priorities. Key details: - £175 million will fund 19 new Technical Excellence Colleges. - The colleges are expected to provide training for about 65,000 young people. - The announced specialisms include defence, clean energy, digital and manufacturing. - The Department for Education estimates nearly 600,000 additional workers will be needed in these sectors by 2030. - Colleges may use the funding for specialist equipment, new courses and training more specialist staff. - Milton Keynes College was named as a technical excellence college for digital, where students are learning robotics and artificial intelligence. Summary: The funding expands the network of Technical Excellence Colleges and aims to align training with industries highlighted by ministers. Officials say the move supports energy and defence priorities and seeks to open clearer routes into skilled work. Undetermined at this time.