Circuit ofWales backs college launching racing car course
STUDENTS will be able to build and race a track racing car as part of a course being launched in Wales this year.
Coleg Gwent’s new level 3 Motorsport Engineering Extended Diploma has had backing from the proposed Circuit of Wales.
Coleg Gwent said it wanted to capitalise on projects which may provide jobs by offering motorsport engineering at its Ebbw Vale Campus.
Students will race their cars against students from other colleges as part of their studies.
The Circuit of Wales is yet to be approved by the Welsh Government but a new report from a leading academic says it would help kick start a revival in the valleys economy.
Professor Brian Morgan of Cardiff Metropolitan University has written a report looking at the economic impact of the race track project proposed for Ebbw Vale.
The scheme, put forward by the Heads of the Valleys Development Company, has proved controversial because of the company’s demand that its investment be underwritten with a £210m loan guarantee from the Welsh Government.
Ministers are due to announce whether they will give that guarantee in June.
Coleg Gwent hopes its new course will encourage more young people into the industry.
John Sexton, director of the Blaenau Gwent Learning Zone in Ebbw Vale said: With the likes of TVR, Aston Martin and the (proposed) Circuit of Wales all setting up shop in close proximity to the campus, it is an ideal time to promote the industry and give the young people a better chance of employability.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for bright young engineers to follow their dream of working in the motorsport arena and it will be delivered in tandem with our successful Aeronautical Engineering Extended Diploma.”
The course is equivalent to A levels so students who graduate will be able to progress to engineering degree courses at university.
Martin Whitaker, Chief Executive of Circuit of Wales, said: “This announcement comes at an exciting time as Wales is on the cusp of taking its automotive and motorsport infrastructure and capabilities to another level.
“The team at Circuit of Wales is overwhelmed by the passion that exists in Wales for all things automotive and this course will directly affect the future of the automotive industry in Wales.
“The Circuit of Wales looks forward to working closely with the college and its students, to provide them with opportunities and support in any way we can.
“Education and training within the south Wales valleys region are a key branch of our overall objective and this will ensure students not only enjoy the course, but have tangible opportunities once they complete their education.”
Economy Secretary Ken Skates is deciding whether to provide a loan guarantee of £210m from public funds, without which the scheme to build a £425m racetrack in Ebbw Vale will not proceed.