In what can be an anxious time for students and their families awaiting their A-level and GCSE results, families in the North West can take comfort in the region’s wealth of educational innovation and opportunities. This week alone, Chamber members Ulster University, Inner City Trust, North West Regional College, and Craft Training have all made encouraging announcements.

Last week, a significant heritage-led regeneration project providing student accommodation in Derry’s Walled City was officially opened. It’s now ready for the new intake of Ulster University students who will start the academic year in the coming weeks. This project is the first in a series of similar initiatives being planned by the Inner City Trust. Additionally, this week marked a milestone for Ulster University’s School of Medicine at its Derry campus, where the first-ever cohort of medicine students began their final year. This highlights the crucial role the North West is playing in training the next generation of much-needed doctors.

North West Regional College (NWRC) in partnership with Vertiv have launched their Electrical Switchgear Academy. This academy will train 15 participants over seven weeks, guiding them  towards a Level 2 entry-level qualification in Electrical Installation (EAL) for careers in the electrical switchgear sector. Students have many other options to pursue their path to success, including gaining vocational qualifications and pursuing Higher Level Apprenticeships at NWRC.

NWRC High Achiever Eva Jack pictured collecting her BTEC results yesterday with Senior Admissions Officer Louise Nash

The North West also excels in skills training through Craft Training, a leading provider of qualifications and NVQs in Northern Ireland. Celebrating 30 years in business, Craft offers over 60 diverse courses for learners of all ages and backgrounds, ranging from hospitality to bricklaying. The company was recently honoured with a North West Business Award and received notable recognition from the Mayor of Derry, Lillian Seenoi-Barr, for its significant contributions to the education sector in Northern Ireland.

Education and skills development are central to Derry City & Strabane District’s Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan, which highlights the importance of “enhancing our skills and retaining our talent base.” The North West offers an impressive variety of educational and skills-based opportunities, from medicine and electrical installation to advanced skills training. This diverse range of options underscores the vital role of Chamber members in advancing the plan and ensuring that students can access these valuable opportunities locally.