A strategic approach
We have established strong collaborative partnerships with employers and the local community to combine our expertise for mutually benefit and to contribute positively to the city and region.
Who we are
Education Partnership North East (EPNE) is a dynamic partnership between Sunderland College, Hartlepool Sixth Form and Northumberland College.
We believe that culture and quality are equally important and as such place a high value on living and breathing our professional values. We constantly striving to ensure that we are consistently authentic, respectful, innovative and ambitious for our students, people and partners.
Our people come to work every day to make a positive difference to our community of approx. 21,500 students. We are passionate about positively contributing to the social, economic and educational outcomes of our region.
Following the merger with Hartlepool Sixth Form and Northumberland College, we are now one of the largest college groups in the country. Our campuses span across Northumberland, Sunderland and Hartlepool; with a catchment area from Berwick-upon-Tweed to the Tees Valley. Whilst we are working hard to create a one-college approach, each one of our colleges will remain strongly connected to the communities that they serve.
Our sector specialisms align to the key needs of the labour market and are embedded both in our pioneering curriculum development and our investment in world-class facilities that equip our students with the relevant skills for industry. Our courses are delivered by experienced and dedicated staff and we have some of the best training facilities in the North East for students and employers.
We specialise in the following industries:
Our awards and recognition
Highly Commended - Employer of the Year, Sunderland Echo Portfolio Awards 2019
BTEC College of the year, Pearson 2019
Engagement with Employers - Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Award 2017
Selected by DfE for 2021 T Level pilot to deliver the new high-quality technical qualifications
98% overall employer satisfaction - Employer Survey 2018/19
Sunderland College named as the best overall college in the North East, 2019 NICDEX league table published by FE Week.
Our offer
Shape our curriculum
Help us to deliver a career-focused curriculum to produce young people and adults with the skills, knowledge and qualities that employers require by contributing to the design of our high-quality programmes.
Find out moreOur strategic partners
Annual report 2018/19
College updates
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Marelli recognised for its positive impact on skills
December 22, 2022
Global automotive supplier Marelli has received special recognition for its ‘Positive Impact on Skills’ from Sunderland College.
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Northumberland College teams up with national house builder
December 20, 2022
A leading house builder has strengthened its relationship with Northumberland College through a donation of 10,000 bricks
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Young Asian Voices honoured by Sunderland College
December 16, 2022
Young Asian Voices (YAV) Sunderland has received a special Recognition Award for their ‘Positive Impact in the Community’ at an inspiring VIP