A £15 million skills hub has opened at Crawley College, boosting higher technical education and training across Sussex and Surrey.
The new Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIOT) building has now officially opened at Crawley College, marking a new era for higher technical education across Sussex and Surrey. The SSIoT building is a £15 million investment in the region’s future, providing students and employers with access to world-class facilities and training in engineering, construction and digital technologies.
Higher Technical Skills
The new state-of-the-art facility brings together universities, colleges and employers to deliver higher technical skills that meet local and regional needs. SSIoT is a partnership between Chichester College Group, the University of Brighton, the University of Sussex, the University of Chichester and Nescot. Each partner contributes specialist expertise, facilities and employer links, ensuring that both learners and businesses benefit from the region’s strengths.
The building was officially opened by Peter Lamb, Labour MP for Crawley, at a launch event attended by partner representatives, employers and local stakeholders. The opening marks a significant milestone for the South East economy, which is seeing strong growth linked to Gatwick’s expansion, net-zero construction and digital innovation.
Paul Rolfe, Director of SSIoT and Associate Principal for Employers and Stakeholders at Chichester College Group, said:
“The official opening of the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology at Crawley College today marks a major milestone for our region’s future. Having all our key stakeholders—from local universities and the council to leading employers and community partners—here to witness the launch, along with the official opening by Peter Lamb MP, truly underscores the collaborative spirit driving this initiative. This Institute isn’t just a new building; it’s a vital, state-of-the-art hub dedicated to equipping our workforce with the higher-level technical skills businesses desperately need. We’re ready to start delivering the talent pipeline that will power the economic growth of Sussex and Surrey.”
What does it offer?
The SSIoT offers Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), apprenticeships and degree-level courses developed in collaboration with employers to meet current and future skills needs. It also supports local businesses through Skills Bootcamps, T Level placements and employer-led curriculum design, helping ensure the region’s workforce is ready for tomorrow’s challenges.