The opening ceremony brought together apprentices, teachers, government ministers, industry representatives and trade partners, marking a significant milestone in Jersey's transition to a low carbon future.
Located at Highlands College, the new workshop has been designed specifically to train apprentices in the installation, maintenance and servicing of low carbon heating technologies. Featuring industry-leading equipment and realistic training environments, the facility provides apprentices with hands-on experience using the technologies they will encounter throughout their careers.
The workshop is believed to be among the most advanced facilities of its type in Europe and has been created to ensure Jersey develops the skilled workforce needed to support the Island's growing demand for low carbon heating solutions.
The Green Skills Academy forms part of a £3 million investment by Jersey Electricity over five years, supporting the training of 36 apprentices and creating a long-term skills pipeline for the Island.
Lieutenant Governor Vice Admiral Sir Jerry Kyd KBE formally opened the Academy during a ceremony attended by apprentices from the inaugural cohort, teaching staff, ministers and representatives from the local construction and energy sectors.
Lance Chatfield, Principal of Highlands College, said: "The Green Skills Academy creates exciting opportunities for our learners. Through this partnership, apprentices will gain access to qualifications and specialist training opportunities that were previously unavailable in Jersey, and they will build careers in a sector that is critical to Jersey's environmental and economic future. The Academy is not solely for those beginning their careers, it will support people of all ages and stages of life, whether they are apprentices entering the profession, existing professionals looking to upskill or adults seeking to retrain and pursue new career opportunities. Thank you once again to everyone who has contributed to making this vision a reality."
Chris Ambler, Chief Executive of Jersey Electricity, said: "When we announced the Green Skills Academy earlier this year, we described it as an investment in Jersey's sustainable future. That vision now becomes a reality. This workshop is a state-of-the-art facility that stands comparison with the very best training centres in Europe and gives Jersey a learning environment that will benefit generations of apprentices to come.
"The transition to low carbon heating depends on having the right skills available locally. By investing in people, training and partnerships, we are ensuring Jersey has the capability to meet that challenge. Most importantly, we are creating opportunities for young people to build rewarding careers while helping to deliver the Island's energy future."
The first cohort of apprentices began training this month and will combine classroom learning with practical experience working alongside local trade partners. The Academy's collaborative model brings together education, industry and government to create new pathways into skilled employment while supporting Jersey's environmental ambitions.
Corie Smith, Green Skills Academy Apprentice, said:
“I’m really proud to be part of a group of amazing young adults who have been given a great opportunity to drive a greener future for Jersey.”
