Green Skills Courses
With a robust curriculum designed to meet the evolving needs of industries in the transition towards a sustainable future, Preston College offers comprehensive list of courses tailored to develop the expertise and competencies required in today’s green landscape.
Hybrid Vehicles & Electrical Vehicles Maintenance and Awareness
Course Overview:
This comprehensive course provides in-depth knowledge of the operation, maintenance, and benefits of hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs). Participants will explore the integration of electric and traditional combustion engines, understand the latest technologies in sustainable transportation, and gain essential skills for the maintenance and repair of these vehicles. The course will also highlight the role of hybrid and EVs in reducing carbon emissions and their contribution to a greener, more sustainable future.
Key Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the operation and key components of hybrid and electric vehicles
- Gain practical skills in the maintenance and servicing of hybrid systems
- Learn about the integration of electric motors and internal combustion engines
- Identify the benefits of hybrid and electric vehicles in terms of fuel efficiency and sustainability
- Explore the latest developments in EV technology and infrastructure
- Understand the environmental impact of hybrid and electric vehicles and their role in reducing carbon emissions
- Learn safety protocols and best practices for working with high-voltage systems in EVs
Who Should Attend:
- Automotive technicians and engineers looking to expand their knowledge of hybrid and electric vehicles
- Mechanics wishing to update their skills for the latest advancements in vehicle technology
- Environmental professionals interested in sustainable transport solutions
- Anyone seeking to enhance their career in the growing electric vehicle sector
Course Details:
Duration: 3.5 days
Delivery: Face-to-Face, hands-on learning with practical sessions
Location: Preston College
Price: funded through UKSPF or £300 per student
Course Modules Include:
- Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
Understanding the different types of hybrid and electric vehicles and their components - Hybrid Powertrains & Electrical Systems
Key technologies, integration of combustion and electric engines, and maintenance - Battery Systems & Charging Infrastructure
Overview of battery technology, charging stations, and their importance to EV adoption - Vehicle Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Using diagnostic tools for electric vehicle systems and maintenance practices - Sustainability and Environmental Impact
How hybrid and electric vehicles contribute to reducing emissions and promoting green transport - Health & Safety with High-Voltage Systems
Key safety measures when working with electric and hybrid vehicles, including protective equipment
Why Choose This Course?
Certificate of Completion – Receive a certification
Expert Tutors – Learn from experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of hybrid and electric vehicle technology.
Hands-on Experience – Gain practical skills through real-world applications and workshop-based learning.
Industry-Relevant Knowledge – Stay ahead of the curve with training that aligns with the latest industry standards and technological developments.
Installation of Electric Vehicle Charge Points (Domestic & small-scale Commercial)
This course is for fully qualified Electricians, and focuses on the installation of Electric Vehicle charge points for Domestic and small-scale Commercial installations, a key technology in reducing carbon emissions. Participants will learn the installation requirements for EV charge points, which contribute to the adoption of clean and low carbon energy solutions.
The course includes a copy of IET Codes of Practice – EV Charge Point Installation 5th Edition (RRP £70)
Evidence Required: This course requires Level 3 qualification evidence of competency for Electrical Installations.
Delivery: Face to Face
Duration: 2 days
Cost of Course: £395
For all types of EV course enquiries please email evcourses@preston.ac.uk
Air Source Heat Pumps Installation
Join Preston College for the Heat Pump Systems course, designed to provide you with the essential knowledge and skills to install, maintain, and troubleshoot heat pump systems. This course is vital for anyone looking to specialise in renewable energy solutions for residential and commercial properties.
Who Should Attend:
- Plumbers and heating engineers
- Electricians
- Building service engineers
- Contractors and installers
- Anyone interested in renewable energy technologies
Key Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand the principles and operation of heat pump systems.
- Identify different types of heat pumps and their applications.
- Install and maintain heat pump systems safely and effectively.
- Troubleshoot common issues in heat pump systems.
Comply with relevant regulations and standards.
Course Content:
- Introduction to Heat Pumps
- Types of heat pumps: air, ground, and water
- How heat pumps work
- Installation Practices
- Site assessment and system design
- Installation techniques and best practices
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Regular maintenance procedures
- Diagnosing and fixing common issues
- Regulatory Compliance
- Understanding relevant regulations and standards
- Safety considerations in heat pump installation
Delivery: Face to Face
Duration: 4 days
Cost: Free via UKSPF or full cost price: £300 per learner
Installation of Small Solar Photovoltaic Panels
Course Overview: Enrol in Preston College’s Solar Photovoltaic Systems course to gain the expertise needed to install, maintain, and troubleshoot solar PV systems. This course is essential for professionals seeking to excel in the renewable energy sector and contribute to a sustainable future.
Who Should Attend:
- Electricians and electrical engineers
- Plumbers and heating engineers
- Renewable energy installers
- Contractors and builders
- Anyone interested in solar technology
Key Learning Outcomes: By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand the principles of solar photovoltaic technology.
- Identify the components and types of solar PV systems.
- Safely install and maintain solar PV systems.
- Troubleshoot common issues in solar installations.
- Comply with relevant regulations and industry standards.
Course Content:
- Introduction to Solar Photovoltaics
- How solar PV works
- Types of solar PV systems: grid-tied and off-grid
- Installation Practices
- Site assessment and system design
- Installation techniques and best practices
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Routine maintenance procedures
- Diagnosing and resolving common issues
- Regulatory Compliance
- Understanding relevant regulations and standards
- Safety considerations in solar PV installation
Delivery: Face to Face
Duration: 3.5 days
Design & Surveying Retro fit (Domestic properties)
Course Overview: Join Preston College for this comprehensive course designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to improve energy efficiency in domestic buildings. This programme is integral to our commitment to sustainability and green skills development.
Who Should Attend:
- Builders and contractors
- Architects and designers
- Energy assessors
- Homeowners interested in enhancing their properties
- Anyone passionate about sustainable housing practices
Key Learning Outcomes: Upon completion, you will be able to:
- Grasp the fundamental principles and advantages of domestic retrofit.
- Identify and evaluate common retrofit measures and technologies.
- Conduct energy performance assessments for existing homes.
- Communicate effectively with clients regarding retrofit options.
- Navigate the regulatory landscape surrounding domestic retrofit.
Course Content:
- Introduction to Retrofit
- Definition and significance
- Environmental considerations
- Energy Efficiency Measures
- Insulation, windows, and heating systems
- Renewable energy solutions
- Building Performance Assessment
- Conducting energy audits
- Utilising energy performance data
- Regulations and Standards
- Understanding relevant building regulations
- Best practices in retrofit
- Client Engagement and Project Management
- Strategies for effective communication
- Managing retrofit projects from initiation to completion
Course Format:
- Duration: 4 days
- Delivery Method: face-to-face or online
- Cost: £300 per student or FREE* through the UKSPF project
- Location: Preston College
Why Choose Preston College? At Preston College, we are dedicated to fostering green skills and sustainable practices. Our expert instructors provide hands-on training that empowers individuals to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Design & Surveying Retro fit (Commercial properties)
Similar to the domestic properties course, this train-the-trainer program concentrates on retrofit design and surveying, specifically tailored for commercial properties in Lancashire. Participants will develop expertise in guiding others toward energy-efficient retrofits in the commercial sector.
Delivery: Face to Face or Online
Duration: 4 days
Retrofit Installation (Domestic properties)
Course Overview: A comprehensive course designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to improve energy efficiency in domestic buildings. This program is integral to our commitment to sustainability and green skills development.
Who Should Attend:
- Builders and contractors
- Architects and designers
- Energy assessors
- Homeowners interested in enhancing their properties
- Anyone passionate about sustainable housing practices
Key Learning Outcomes: Upon completion, you will be able to:
- Grasp the fundamental principles and advantages of domestic retrofit.
- Identify and evaluate common retrofit measures and technologies.
- Conduct energy performance assessments for existing homes.
- Communicate effectively with clients regarding retrofit options.
Navigate the regulatory landscape surrounding domestic retrofit.
Course Content:
- Introduction to Retrofit
- Definition and significance
- Environmental considerations
- Energy Efficiency Measures
- Insulation, windows, and heating systems
- Renewable energy solutions
- Building Performance Assessment
- Conducting energy audits
- Utilizing energy performance data
- Regulations and Standards
- Understanding relevant building regulations
- Best practices in retrofit
- Client Engagement and Project Management
- Strategies for effective communication
- Managing retrofit projects from initiation to completion
Delivery: Face to Face or Online
Duration: 4 days
Cost: Free via UKSPF or full cost price: £300 per learner.
Retrofit Installation (Commercial properties)
Course Overview:
This train-the-trainer programme is specifically tailored for those looking to develop expertise in retrofit design and surveying for commercial properties. Focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of the commercial sector, this course will equip participants with the knowledge and skills to guide others in delivering energy-efficient retrofit solutions. Participants will learn about the key principles of building performance, sustainability, and the latest industry best practices, enabling them to support the transition to more energy-efficient and sustainable commercial spaces in Lancashire.
Key Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the fundamentals of energy-efficient retrofitting for commercial properties
- Learn how to design and implement retrofit projects for various commercial building types
- Develop expertise in surveying commercial buildings to assess retrofit potential and energy efficiency improvements
- Gain an understanding of the latest retrofit technologies, materials, and energy-saving solutions
- Learn how to evaluate the energy performance of commercial buildings and identify areas for improvement
- Build the skills to train others in delivering successful retrofit projects
- Explore the role of retrofitting in reducing carbon emissions and meeting sustainability goals
Who Should Attend:
- Professionals working in energy efficiency, sustainability, or building design
- Building surveyors, architects, and engineers looking to expand their knowledge of energy-efficient retrofit solutions for commercial properties
- Trainers and educators who wish to gain the knowledge and skills to teach retrofit principles to others
- Anyone looking to enhance their expertise in energy-efficient commercial building projects and contribute to sustainability efforts
Course Details:
Duration: 4 days
Delivery: Available Face-to-Face or Online
Location: Preston College
Cost: Funded via UKSPF or £300 per student
Course Modules Include:
- Introduction to Retrofit Design and Surveying for Commercial Properties
Overview of the principles and strategies for retrofitting commercial buildings to improve energy efficiency - Building Performance and Energy Audits
Learn to conduct energy audits and assess building performance to identify retrofit opportunities - Designing Energy-Efficient Retrofit Solutions
How to create tailored retrofit plans that address specific building types and performance needs - Surveying and Assessing Commercial Properties for Retrofit
Learn how to effectively survey commercial properties and recommend retrofit interventions - Sustainable Materials and Technologies
Explore the latest sustainable materials and technologies that can be used in commercial property retrofits - Regulatory Compliance and Best Practices
Understand the key building regulations, standards, and best practices for commercial retrofitting - Training Others in Retrofit Practices
Develop the skills to teach and mentor others in energy-efficient retrofit design and surveying
Why Choose This Course?
- Expert Tutors – Learn from industry professionals with hands-on experience in commercial retrofit projects.
- Tailored Content – Focused specifically on the unique needs and challenges of retrofitting commercial properties.
- Flexible Delivery – Choose between face-to-face learning for direct, hands-on experience or online delivery for flexibility and convenience.
- Practical Experience – Gain practical insights and real-world application of retrofit principles through case studies and interactive learning.
- Professional Recognition – Enhance your skills in energy efficiency and sustainability, which are increasingly in demand in the building sector.
Managing Net Zero & Sustainability
Course Overview:
This train-the-trainer course empowers individuals to educate others on managing net-zero initiatives and sustainability practices. Participants will learn strategies for implementing sustainable practices and achieving net-zero targets in various sectors.
Introduction
This train-the-trainer course empowers professionals in Lancashire and Preston to guide organisations through implementing sustainability practices and achieving net-zero targets. Designed for educators and sustainability advocates, the course provides practical tools for managing net-zero initiatives, with a focus on sectors relevant to the local economy.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
You will explore a range of modules, including:
- Greenhouse Gas Protocol (Scope 1 & 2): Understanding and applying emission-reduction strategies in businesses.
- Whole Life Cycle Assessments: Analysing the environmental impact of products and projects, from cradle-to-cradle.
- Circular Economy & Cradle-to-Grave Concepts: Identifying sustainable opportunities within business models to reduce waste and promote efficiency.
- Net Zero Carbon Buildings Framework: How to manage building projects with a net-zero carbon focus.
- Digital Tools for Carbon Management: Using AI and other advanced technologies to monitor and report on carbon emissions.
- Industry Standards (PAS, ISO, BREEAM, LEED): Familiarizing with UK and international frameworks for carbon neutrality and energy efficiency.
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?
The course will be delivered in a combination of classroom-based learning, workshops, and online resources. Industry experts and sustainability professionals will provide practical insights and case studies relevant to local SMEs and large businesses operating in construction, facility management, and other sectors.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assessment will be through project-based tasks, portfolios, and practical evaluations. Participants will develop real-world strategies for helping businesses transition to net-zero, focusing on emissions reduction, sustainable design, and policy implementation.
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
On successful completion, you can become a sustainability consultant or trainer specialising in net-zero management. You may also progress onto advanced certifications in sustainability or carbon management, applicable to sectors such as construction, energy, and manufacturing.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
This course has been designed in collaboration with local industry bodies and is aligned with Lancashire and Preston’s drive towards a sustainable, low-carbon economy.
Delivery: Face to Face or Online
Duration: 1 day
Cost: Free via UKSPF or full cost price: £50 per learner
Low Carbon practice for SMEs and Micro Employers
This course is designed to train individuals as trainers, guiding small and micro employers in adopting low carbon practices. Participants will learn effective communication strategies and practical approaches to help SMEs reduce their carbon footprint.
Introduction
This course is designed to equip individuals with the skills to become trainers, guiding small and micro-sized businesses in adopting low-carbon practices. Participants will learn practical approaches and effective communication strategies to help reduce the carbon footprint of SMEs, driving the transition toward Net Zero across Lancashire.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
You will explore a range of modules, including:
- Defining Net Zero and Net Carbon.
- Understanding low embodied carbon in construction projects.
- Exploring Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and their significance.
- Identifying sustainable building materials for construction projects.
- Understanding the stages and lifecycle of low-carbon products.
- Outlining Scope 1 emissions and the strategies for monitoring, recording, and reporting carbon emissions.
- Gaining insights into green skills and their role in reducing carbon emissions.
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?
Training will take place in a combination of classroom-based learning and practical workshops. This format will allow you to explore real-world scenarios, case studies, and examples related to low-carbon practices in small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The course will be assessed through a combination of practical assessments, portfolios, and evidence gathering aligned with national standards on low-carbon practices. Participants will also be required to deliver a final presentation on how their organization or SMEs can integrate low-carbon strategies.
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
After completing this course, you can progress to more advanced certifications in sustainable business practices or environmental management. You could also work as a sustainability consultant, particularly for SMEs looking to adopt greener business models.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW? This course emphasizes real-world applications and may require learners to access industry-standard tools and materials relevant to carbon management.
Delivery: Face to Face or Online
Duration: 2 days
Cost: Free via UKSPF or full cost price: £150 per learner
Transition to Net Zero and Carbon Technology, Monitoring & Procurement
Focusing on the transition to net-zero and carbon technology, this train-the-trainer program equips participants with the knowledge to guide others in implementing effective monitoring and procurement strategies aligned with sustainability goals.
Introduction
This Train the Trainer course is designed to empower participants with the essential knowledge required to support organisations in their transition to net zero carbon technology. With a strong focus on effective monitoring and procurement strategies aligned with sustainability goals, participants will gain the skills to guide others through this crucial process in the workplace.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
You will learn to:
- Understand Scope 1 Emissions: Explore the direct control of carbon emissions and strategies to monitor, reduce, and eliminate them.
- Manage Scope 2 Indirect Emissions: Learn how to manage and monitor emissions from electricity, steam, heating, and cooling that a company indirectly controls.
- Understand Scope 3 Value Chain Emissions: Gain insight into how a company’s supply chain impacts carbon emissions, and how to assess risks and opportunities.
- Procurement Strategies for Carbon Technology: Develop and implement green energy procurement plans to achieve long-term carbon reduction goals.
- Digital Tools for Carbon Monitoring: Discover how automated tools and software can help organisations track and report their carbon emissions.
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?
The course will be delivered through a combination of workshops, presentations, and practical exercises. Real-life case studies will be used to illustrate how companies, especially SMEs, can transition to net zero while maintaining operational efficiency.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
You will be assessed through:
- Practical assignments focused on developing carbon reduction strategies.
- Designing procurement plans for renewable energy.
- Conducting risk assessments of a company’s carbon footprint across Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Upon completion, you will be equipped to train others in carbon management and net-zero practices within your organisation or consultancy. Further opportunities include roles in sustainability consultancy, procurement management for green energy, or carbon strategy development.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW? This course is designed to meet the growing demand for net-zero carbon expertise within the UK, particularly within SMEs, and will help businesses in Lancashire and Preston meet national carbon targets.
Delivery: Face to Face or Online
Duration: 2 days
Cost: Free via UKSPF or full cost price: £150 per learner
Green skills Technology in the Automotive Industry
(Low Carbon advice and support for SMEs)
Course Overview:
This course provides low carbon advice and support tailored specifically for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the automotive industry. As the automotive sector increasingly shifts toward sustainability, this program will equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills to implement green technologies and sustainable practices. Participants will gain insights into the latest advancements in low-carbon technologies and how these can be applied to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and foster long-term sustainability in the automotive industry.
Key Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the principles of low carbon technologies and their applications in the automotive sector
- Explore how SMEs can implement green skills to reduce their carbon footprint
- Learn about the latest sustainable automotive technologies and practices
- Gain practical insights into energy-efficient production processes and resource management
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of green certification and environmental regulations affecting the automotive industry
- Learn how to implement cost-effective, low-carbon solutions that align with business goals and regulatory requirements
- Understand the opportunities for SMEs to transition to greener operations and contribute to a more sustainable future
Who Should Attend:
- Business owners and managers in SMEs within the automotive industry
- Automotive technicians and engineers seeking to enhance their knowledge of green technologies
- Sustainability consultants and professionals working with the automotive sector
- Individuals interested in implementing or advising on low-carbon practices in their workplace
- Anyone looking to advance their knowledge of sustainability and green skills in the automotive industry
Duration: 2 days
Delivery: Available Face-to-Face or Online
Location: Preston College
Cost: Free through the UKSPF project or £100 per student
Course Modules Include:
- Introduction to Low Carbon Technologies in the Automotive Industry
Overview of key green technologies and how they apply to automotive manufacturing and operations - Sustainable Practices in Automotive Production
Techniques for improving efficiency and reducing waste in the automotive supply chain - Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Strategies
Practical approaches to reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions in automotive businesses - Green Certification and Environmental Standards
Understanding green certifications (e.g., ISO 14001) and complying with industry regulations - Innovative Green Technologies in the Automotive Sector
Insight into electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid technologies, alternative fuels, and other innovations - Transitioning Your SME to Low Carbon Operations
Step-by-step guidance for SMEs to integrate sustainable practices into their operations - Cost-Benefit Analysis of Green Technologies
Learn how to assess and implement low-carbon technologies in a cost-effective manner
Why Choose This Course?
Cost-Effective – Learn how to implement green technologies and practices that not only benefit the environment but also improve efficiency and reduce costs in your business.
Tailored for SMEs – This course is specifically designed to address the needs and challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses in the automotive industry.
Expert Trainers – Learn from professionals with extensive experience in both the automotive sector and sustainable technology solutions.
Practical Insights – Gain actionable advice and strategies that can be immediately applied within your business operations.
Green skills Technology in the Construction industry
(Low Carbon advice and support for SMEs)
Tailored for the construction industry, this course provides low carbon advice and support for SMEs. Participants will learn about green skills and technologies, enabling them to implement sustainable practices in construction projects.
Awarded By: Non accredited
Level: L1
Guided Learning Hours: 6
Fee: £150 (funding may be available)
Introduction
Designed specifically for the construction industry, this course offers crucial advice and training in low-carbon technologies. Participants will gain the knowledge needed to help small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Lancashire and Preston integrate green skills into construction projects, addressing the region’s push for sustainable growth.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
You will gain insights into the following areas:
- Green Industrial Revolution Policy: Explore the UK Government’s Green Industrial Revolution Policy and its impact on construction.
- Net-Zero Construction Skills: Understand the emerging green skills required for sustainable construction, including retrofitting, heat pump installation, and digital design.
- Modern Construction Technologies: Learn about cutting-edge tools such as AI, BIM (Building Information Modelling), and modular construction for low-carbon projects.
- Retrofit for Existing Building Stock: Gain essential knowledge on retrofitting to reduce the carbon footprint of domestic and commercial buildings in compliance with PAS 2035 and PAS 2038.
- Career Opportunities in the Green Sector: Explore green job prospects within the local construction industry.
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?
This course will be delivered through a combination of classroom learning, workshops, and hands-on activities, tailored to meet the needs of the local construction industry. Regional case studies and guest speakers will help connect national sustainability goals to the unique challenges faced in Lancashire and Preston.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assessment will be carried out through practical exercises, skills audits, and project-based evaluations. Participants will produce a plan outlining how they intend to apply green technologies and skills within their existing or future roles.
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Upon completing this course, you can pursue career opportunities as a retrofit coordinator, digital designer, or green project manager in the construction industry. Additionally, you can further your knowledge through advanced qualifications in sustainable construction practices or management of low-carbon projects.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
This course has been designed to support Preston’s and Lancashire’s ongoing green transformation, aligning with regional net-zero goals and the government’s green jobs agenda.
Delivery: Face to Face or Online
Duration: 2 days
Cost: Free via UKSPF or full cost price: £150 per learner.