NWSLC recognised with national award for driving skills excellence in the automotive sector

North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC) has been awarded a Queen Elizabeth Prize for Education for its pioneering partnership work at the MIRA Technology Institute (MTI) – the only college in the Midlands to receive this national honour and one of only four colleges across the UK.

The Prizes, awarded every two years on the advice of the Prime Minister, recognises exceptional work by UK colleges and universities that delivers real-world impact through innovation and excellence in education. NWSLC was selected from over 100 entries, underlining the college’s national leadership in developing the specialist skills the automotive sector urgently needs.

The MTI was established through a unique collaboration between NWSLC, HORIBA MIRA, Coventry University, the University of Leicester and Loughborough University, supported by a £9.5m investment from the Government’s Local Growth Fund.

Since its launch in 2018, the Institute has trained nearly 61,500 students and professionals, including almost 5,000 learners completing accredited qualifications and nearly 1,200 apprentices. MTI has also delivered professional development for 18,000 industry professionals from leading automotive companies such as Jaguar Land Rover, Bentley and Aston Martin.

NWSLC Principal and Chief Executive, Marion Plant OBE, FCGI, who is Chair of the MTI Operations Board, said: “NWSLC, in partnership with its industry partner HORIBA MIRA, came up with the concept for MTI in response to research which showed the demand for specialist technical skills across the automotive sector was rising as successful vehicle manufacturers prepared for large scale growth.

“However, the development of specialist skills for these new growth areas was lagging behind and faster progress was required to address critical skills gaps in the sector.

“We work tirelessly with our partners, in particular HORIBA MIRA, to build a skills offer that reflects future skills demand trends and enables the Institute to pivot to meet these emerging technologies.

“We’re so proud to have received this prestigious national award that recognises UK colleges and universities whose outstanding work demonstrates excellence and innovation and delivers real benefit to the wider world.”

This recognition demonstrates the college’s ability to help businesses secure the skills they need to compete. Companies gain access to a reliable talent pipeline, specialist upskilling for their existing workforce and industry-informed training shaped by real employer needs. By partnering with MTI, Midlands businesses can future-proof operations and maintain a competitive edge as the sector evolves.

MTI also runs STEM initiatives for school pupils, helping inspire the next generation of engineers and future workforce talent in the region.

MTI Operations Director Lisa Bingley added: “This recognition reflects the scale and impact of our work. For businesses, it’s reassurance that NWSLC and MTI are delivering the technical specialists and innovative solutions that will drive the automotive sector forward.”

Representatives from NWSLC and MTI will be presented with their Queen Elizabeth Prize for Education medal and certificate at an official ceremony in the New Year.

To discover how NWSLC can support your organisation’s growth, explore our full range of opportunities – from STEM engagement events that inspire future talent, to apprenticeships that build a skilled workforce, and adult skills development programmes designed to upskill your team for emerging technologies. Contact [email protected] to start shaping your skills strategy today.