Furness College Celebrates National Recognition in Defence Technical Excellence Partnership

Furness College is proud to be part of a nationally recognised partnership after Blackpool and The Fylde College (B&FC), working in collaboration with Furness College, was named as one of just five Defence Technical Excellence Colleges (DTEC) in England.

This prestigious designation highlights the strength of the partnership between the two colleges and their close collaboration with BAE Systems across its Air and Submarine sectors. Furness College played a significant role in shaping the successful bid, contributing its expertise in defence-focused technical education, apprenticeships and employer-led training designed to meet the needs of Barrow, Furness and the wider Cumbrian economy.

The recognition reinforces Furness College’s vital role in supporting the UK’s defence capability. Its long-standing partnership with BAE Systems in Barrow is central to the manufacture of submarines for the UK defence sector, placing the college at the heart of activity that is important not only regionally, but nationally and internationally.

As part of the DTEC network, the partnership will benefit from dedicated investment to support defence skills. This includes access to national funding streams, specialist equipment, enhanced facilities and increased workforce capacity. The status will also help attract further investment from major employers, the defence supply chain and government-backed programmes focused on innovation and growth.

The announcement comes at a pivotal time, as Furness College prepares for its planned merger with B&FC in August. The merger will create a stronger, more resilient organisation, enabling greater investment across the region, expansion of specialist training facilities and growth in apprenticeships to meet increasing demand in defence and advanced manufacturing.

Principal and CEO Scott Cubitt said:
“Our role as the anchor institution for skills in this region is something that we take great pride in. This recognition as part of a Defence Technical Excellence College partnership reflects the impact of our work with employers and partners, and our commitment to providing education and training that gives people the skills they need to secure their future careers while supporting the UK’s defence sector.”

The DTEC designation will also strengthen partnerships beyond major employers, supporting closer collaboration with small and medium-sized businesses across the supply chain. Through co-designed curriculum and clear progression pathways, Furness College will continue to create opportunities for local people to access high-value careers while supporting regional growth.

This recognition, shared with Blackpool and The Fylde College as lead partner, underlines the strategic importance of Furness within the UK’s defence landscape and the crucial role further education plays in developing the workforce of the future.

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