We are opening soon! A major new skills hub for Sussex and Surrey will open its doors on 24 October 2025, giving people across the region access to world-class training and helping employers develop the skilled workforce they need to thrive.
The Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIoT) building, located on Crawley College campus, will bring together universities, colleges and employers to deliver higher-level technical education in engineering, construction and digital technologies.
The SSIoT is a unique partnership between further and higher education, including 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 connections, ensuring students and businesses benefit from the full range of regional strengths in engineering, construction and digital technologies. Provision includes Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), apprenticeships and degrees in engineering, construction and digital technologies.
Paul Rolfe, Director of the SSIoT, said:
“The SSIoT is here for our community and we believe passionately in the future of our region. We understand that the best way to prepare students for the ‘real world’ is to ensure that learners can learn by doing. Our mission is to work alongside local businesses to grow the skills pipeline. Whether it’s apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, T Level placements, co-designing programmes, skills advisory panels or making use of available funding, there are many ways to get involved.”
The building will be officially opened on 24 October by Peter Lamb, Labour MP for Crawley. The event will be attended by a mix of key stakeholders including representatives from partner universities, colleges and employers, who will showcase their strengths in technology, engineering and digital skills, and highlight the new courses and opportunities available through the SSIoT.
The SSIoT will play a central role in delivering the Government’s Technology Strategy, helping to grow higher technical skills across Sussex and Surrey. It will support regional projects such as Gatwick’s expansion, net-zero construction and the growth of digital industries, while providing higher technical education through apprenticeships, HTQs and digital skills training designed to meet employer needs.
For more information or to explore opportunities, please get in touch with the SSIoT.