Investing in innovation
We are committed to investing in cutting-edge facilities to ensure our students receive the best possible learning experience.
At the heart of this commitment is our HICSA (Housing Innovation & Construction Skills Academy) facility, where students gain hands-on experience by constructing a full house each year - offering a truly immersive and vocational approach to training.
In addition, our city campus features an advanced assembly line setup, while specialist welding and fabrication workshops, along with electric power feedback rigs, are available across our campuses to provide comprehensive, real-world training.
Explore our new £9 Million Construction Academy
Our new Construction Academy offers state-of-the-art facilities designed to provide students with hands-on training across all core trades, from bricklaying to plumbing.
Specialist welding and fabrication workshops
Our specialist welding and fabrication workshops accommodate three types of welding MIG, TIG and MMA.
A modern machine shop
Our modern machine workshop boast a selection of the latest lathes, millers, grinders, CNC Machinery, band saws and drills.
Fluid power hydraulic and pneumatic rigs
Our facilities include fluid power hydraulic and pneumatic rigs, SMC training process rigs SCADA, and pick and place rigs.
Micro controller rigs
Our engineering workshops include micro controller rigs, soldering for circuit construction and 3 types of PLCs, including Siemens Mitsubishi and Allen Bradley.
Electric power feedback rigs
On-site we have electric power feedback rigs, motor simulation rigs, motor testing and facilities to wire circuits using board systems covering all voltages up to 420.
Access to design inventor
We have access to Design Inventor, CAD, and 3D printing facilities, as well as live conveyors, pump sets, gear boxes, and training rigs.
UKSPF – Sunderland Skills & Inclusion
Sunderland College is working with local employers to provide training to help people learn new skills in line with employers needs.
Including a variety of practical short courses targeted at the advanced manufacturing sector delivered at our state-of-the-art City campus.
Our Collaborative Process
Connecting you with outstanding local talent
As an Ofsted Outstanding apprenticeship provider, we are committed to supporting employers and empowering local young people. We work closely with your company to connect you with local students who are the best fit for the roles you need – helping you build a future-ready workforce while giving back to the community.
With dedicated recruitment support, we make it easy to find and onboard the right apprentices for your business. This collaborative approach has led to the successful development of responsive programmes – designed to address skills gaps within the engineering sector.
Connecting companies with local talent
Whether you are looking at an apprenticeship programme to recruit and expand your workforce or whether you want to invest in the development of existing employees, we're here to advise and support every step of the way.
College updates
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EPNE Sports Academies have hit glory across all colleges
November 21, 2025
EPNE Sports Academies have hit glory across all its colleges, with the dual career pathway for students proving its worth.
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Here to support your business
November 19, 2025
We pride ourselves on how we support businesses, helping businesses across the region strengthen and develop their workforce.
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Secretary of State Bridget Phillipson MP Officially Opens HICSA
November 12, 2025
The Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson MP, officially opened Sunderland College’s Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Acade...