Green Skills Academy to launch at Highlands College

Highlands College and Jersey Electricity are partnering to launch Jersey’s Green Skills Academy to ensure the Island has the necessary technical and trade skills available to support the Jersey's transition to a low carbon future.

Jersey Electricity will invest nearly £3 million over five years to train 36 apprentices, supported by a newly developed facility at Highlands College designed to enable future training for generations to come. The Green Skills Academy represents an exciting step forward for Jersey’s workforce and for the Island’s green economy. 

Through this initiative, Highlands College will enable apprentices to pursue a wide range of career pathways at a time when advanced technical skills are in high demand, both locally and internationally. 

Jo Terry-Marchant, Principal of Highlands College, said: “We’re proud to partner with Jersey Electricity on this initiative. The Green Skills Academy is an important step towards equipping apprentices with the technical and trade skills needed to ensure Jersey can support the transition to net zero. It’s a welcome addition to our College apprentice programme.

"Research undertaken in the UK indicates a shortfall of around 40% in these skills, and Jersey's labour market intelligence confirms we face a similar challenge here on-island - this course will respond directly to that need. 

"Many of the apprentices could progress into management roles, while others may go on to establish their own businesses, helping to fill gaps in the market and drive innovation. It’s a future-focused programme that will support local industry and deliver lasting benefits for the wider Island."

The Academy will create opportunities for employers and industry, and for islanders to gain access to high-quality training that directly meets economic needs. Highlands College lecturers will deliver an NOCN in Low Carbon Heating which is a nationally recognised qualification, with JE providing mentoring and coaching to support the apprentices’ development.

The first cohort of 12 apprentices will begin their training at Highlands College on a day-release basis and will work with local trades to support customers installing low carbon heating solutions, with the first cohort graduating in summer 2028 as fully qualified Low Carbon Heating Technicians.

JE’s chief executive Chris Ambler said: “This is more than just a training programme, it’s a strategic investment in Jersey’s sustainable future; we are building an education facility to deliver Jersey’s low carbon future. By collaborating with government and industry and by directly investing in local talent, we will ensure the right capacity and skills needed to support the Island’s transition to low carbon heating technologies are available. 

"We’re really pleased to be doing this at a time when governments are recognising the value of apprentices for the economy and individuals. With a 500% increase in demand for air source heat pumps in 2025, we believe there is significant work for the apprentices over the next two decades in Jersey and a huge opportunity to build rewarding careers in the energy and trade sectors.”

Deputy Rob Ward, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, added: “The Green Skills Academy marks an important milestone for both skills development and our Island’s commitment to sustainability. By investing in these practical, future-focused skillsets we are not only supporting the Island’s energy transition, but also opening pathways to meaningful, high quality employment for locals. This initiative will boost our economy by generating skilled jobs and strengthening apprenticeships, it’s an investment in both our people and our future.”

The apprentices will work for local trade partners creating a collaborative model that supports education, industry and government. JE will fund 75% of the apprentices’ salaries in their first year, with trade partners contributing the remaining 25%. In the second year, salaries will be shared equally between JE and the trade partners.

To find out more about the Green Skills Academy, including how to apply, visit www.greenskillsacademy.je.