Alton College awarded £½ million for new Space Technologies programme

Alton College’s plans to train the next generation of space and satellite industry employees have had a £500,000 boost, thanks to funding from the Local Skills Improvement Fund, covering mid- and North-Hampshire and Surrey.

Building on its existing strengths in delivering A Level and vocational courses, Alton College will invest the money in its new Space Technologies programme, including refurbished classrooms and industry-standard facilities and equipment. 

Students will also benefit from unique opportunities with the University of Portsmouth, University of Southampton and Surrey Space Centre at the University of Surrey and with space and satellite industry employers through the Space South Central space cluster. 

The Government’s Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) aims to create more training opportunities in priority skills areas identified by local businesses and employers – giving them access to the skilled workforce they need to grow and prosper.

Earlier this year, the 2023 Space Sector Skills Survey identified the South East as among the most challenging areas for space industry recruitment, with ‘lack of necessary skills and experience’ the biggest barrier to filling vacancies. 

Alton College’s plans reflect the commitment of the Space South Central community of businesses and education providers to equip students with the skills required for careers in the region’s thriving £3 billion space sector.

The new Space Technologies programme will benefit from access to SpaceCraft, a Space South Central and Surrey Space Centre initiative funded by the UK Space Agency.  SpaceCraft gives colleges and SMEs access to Surrey Space Centre’s specialist facilities and expertise to meet the sector’s skills needs and boost innovation. 

Alton College’s Assistant Principal for A Levels and Vocational Curriculum, Ashley Grute, said:

“We are really proud to be playing a key part in preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers for the space and satellite industry. 

“Working with Space South Central and the Universities of Surrey and Portsmouth, our Space Technologies programme will enable us to inspire young people to develop the relevant skills to work in this exciting sector. 

“The fact that in this region there are so many employers and job opportunities in space and satellite means our students will be highly sought after when they complete their studies.”

Dr Louise Butt, Director of the Space South Central Enterprise Network, said:

“With more than 150 space companies, our region is characterised by some of the most dynamic players in the sector, boasting significant capabilities in satellite manufacturing, launch technologies, next-generation communications, robotics and autonomous systems, as well as a full range of satellite data-enabled service capabilities.

“The continued growth and success of the UK space sector relies on the talent of tomorrow, so I’m delighted to see local-led investment in industry-focused facilities and training.  

“This collaboration between Alton College, regional universities and space-related industry will ensure a pipeline of skilled and capable future professionals.”

Alton College’s award is part of a £6 million package of LSIF funding awarded to Hampshire and Surrey in response to the findings of the Local Skills Improvement Plan report published by Surrey Chambers of Commerce.

Sparsholt College Group will lead the delivery of the regional LSIF projects, backed by Surrey and Hampshire Chambers of Commerce, Surrey and Hampshire County Councils and other business networks, to provide high-quality technical education and training that meets local future skills.