Record cohort heads out to industry as HETA looks forward to further highs for £5.5m South Humber Bank site

Industry-bound: The latest HETA cohort have now headed out to their employer sponsors.  

The largest cohort of apprentices to be welcomed to HETA’s new £5.5 million training centre has headed out to industry. 

First years have been completed by 82 budding electricians, engineers, process operators, fitters and welders, who now join their sponsor companies. 

The purpose-built facility was opened in late 2023, significantly expanding the organisation’s presence on the South Bank of the Humber. 

Having welcomed 70 learners in the first year, this number increased by 17 per cent for 2024/25 as a burgeoning demand for trade skills is catered for. 

Iain Elliott, HETA chief executive, said: “It has been extremely rewarding to see our latest facility abuzz with activity this past year. Decisions to invest substantially in the future workforce are incredibly important, and we made a major commitment to the Grimsby-area with this new build.   

“We can see the pipeline ahead, we understand just how vital engineering skills are, and we’re delighted to see the latest cohort go out to employers. We trust that all we’ve delivered in the first 12 months of their apprenticeships will set them on a fulfilling career path, following thousands of others in nearly 60 years of operations.” 

Since the first year group passed through the Stallingborough centre - where engineering apprenticeship specialisms include mechanical, electrical, fluid power, pneumatics, machining, maintenance, fabrication, welding, manufacturing, project management and process operations - tutors have also added installation to the standards. 

Apprentices return for a single day a week for the next two years, and with identical numbers enrolled for 2025/2026, the Pioneer Business Park location will be even busier in the coming year.  

One employer delighted to welcome in their apprentice is Scunthorpe-based ESM Power. Jonathan Brooks, operations director, said: “Partnering with HETA isn’t just about filling vacancies – it’s about investing in talented, motivated people who grow with us. Their apprentices bring fresh ideas, energy, and up-to-date skills that add real value to ESM Power Ltd. By supporting apprenticeships, we’re building our future workforce from the ground up and creating real career pathways backed by hands-on experience. It’s a genuine win-win, and we’re proud to be part of that journey alongside HETA.” 

Prior to the impressive new build, HETA had operated out of facilities at neighbouring Catch, as a tenant. It also has a facility in Scunthorpe and a Hull head office and training base. In total it delivers for more than 400 businesses, with a total of 240 new apprentices across the three sites. Alongside the apprenticeship courses sits upskilling training for those already in industry, as well as Higher National Certificate and Higher National Diploma courses. 

Employers are still being sought for some of the cohort, who are part of a study programme, where they work towards their qualifications while also receiving support in CV writing, interview techniques and wider employability skills. Companies interested in apprentices should email training@heta.co.uk.