HICSA in Sunderland launches today with plans to train up to 800 new and experienced construction workers annually to tackle critical shortages of tradespeople

VELUX, the global roof window manufacturer, in partnership with Sunderland College, today announces the official launch of the VELUX Skills Academy at the Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (“HICSA”) in Sunderland.

Highlights:
• Sunderland launch: First of the 10 new Technical Excellence Colleges nationwide to address critical skill gaps in construction.
• Hands-on, practical learning: Focus on sustainable building methods, roofing, window installation and daylight accreditation.
• Quality-first approach: Not just building more homes, but creating spaces filled with natural light and ventilation, designed for long-term well-being, healthy living and resilience.
• Future proofing: Equipping workers with durable, specialist skills to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry and economy.

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 £20m state-of-the-art training facility managed by Sunderland College and the first of 10 planned across the country.

HICSA will train 490 students, 100 adults and 200 apprentices annually, including both new entrants and those already in the construction sector, providing real-world experience with cutting-edge products and practices.

The 10 colleges across England will together train 40,000 workers by 2029, ensuring every region benefits from this pioneering skills platform.

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, 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.”