EKGTA launches The Academy

The Launch of The Academy at EKGTA: A New Chapter in Engineering Education

In August 2024, EKGTA proudly launched The Academy, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to delivering engineering academic qualifications in-house for the first time. This milestone follows our approval from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) to independently deliver academic programs, a significant step in enhancing our Modern Apprenticeship offering.

Previously, we relied on external colleges, most recently Glasgow Clyde College, to provide the academic components of our training. The launch of The Academy now allows us to seamlessly integrate theoretical learning with the hands-on practical training delivered in our Workshop, creating a unified and dynamic educational experience for apprentices.

Our Team of Experts
The Academy is led by experienced lecturers Stephen Kinnon and Chris Gray, who bring decades of combined expertise in engineering education and the industry. Their commitment to excellence ensures apprentices receive high-quality instruction that bridges the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.

We are also proud to have the support of consultant Raymond Lyon, former Head of Engineering at Glasgow Clyde College. With his extensive experience and insights, Raymond has played a pivotal role in helping us get The Academy off the ground, ensuring its success from the start.

Why The Academy Matters
The introduction of The Academy strengthens our position as a leading provider of engineering education in Scotland. By bringing academic training in-house, we can:

• Deliver Tailored Instruction: Align academic courses with the practical elements of our training programs for a more cohesive learning experience.
• Enhance Flexibility: Offer adaptable course delivery that meets the needs of apprentices and employers alike.
• Streamline Training: Provide both practical and academic education under one roof, simplifying the apprenticeship journey.

This integrated approach ensures apprentices graduate with the comprehensive skills and knowledge required to excel in today’s engineering industry.

What The Academy Offers
The Academy delivers a range of SQA-accredited qualifications, including National Certificates (NC) in engineering disciplines. These qualifications provide apprentices with a strong theoretical foundation, complementing their hands-on training in the Workshop.

Our high-spec classrooms are equipped with smartboards and cutting-edge resources, creating an optimal learning environment. With the expertise of Stephen Kinnon and Chris Gray, apprentices benefit from instruction that is not only informed by decades of experience but also aligned with industry needs and expectations.

A Milestone for EKGTA and the Industry
The launch of The Academy is a testament to our commitment to addressing the evolving needs of Scotland’s engineering sector. By combining academic and practical training in a single facility, we’re empowering apprentices and supporting employers to develop a highly skilled workforce.

David Bell, General Manager at EKGTA, shared:
"The Academy is a game-changer for EKGTA and our apprentices. Having Stephen, Chris, and Raymond involved has been invaluable, and for the first time, we can deliver both practical and academic training under one roof. This will ensure an integrated, high-quality experience for all."

Looking Ahead
The launch of The Academy positions EKGTA as a leader in engineering education, reinforcing our dedication to nurturing Scotland’s future engineering talent. We look forward to welcoming apprentices and employers to experience this enhanced offering and contribute to the success of the next generation of engineers.

Learn More
If you’d like to learn more about The Academy or our Modern Apprenticeship programs, get in touch with us today to see how we can support your career or workforce development.