A skills centre set to provide essential training to the next generation of construction workers has been given its grand opening.

The £10 million Technology, Engineering & Construction (TEC) Centre was officially launched by architect George Clarke, known for his TV show Amazing Spaces.

Around 1,000 students at the centre in South London will be able to gain vital skills in areas including bricklaying, plastering and carpentry.

In addition, the centre, which is part of Carshalton College, will offer courses in electrical work and motor vehicle engineering for trainees looking to enter the automotive and engineering sectors.

Representatives from the CITB were in attendance for the launch event, which saw groups of youngsters participating in hands-on sessions aimed at giving them an idea of the skills they can learn.

A careers fair was also held to give employers the chance to meet the job candidates of the future, as well as to see the new facility for themselves.

To find out more information about all the opportunities available with careers in the construction sector, head to GoConstruct.

Trainees attending the TEC Centre will be able to benefit from state-of-the-art equipment and workshops aimed at providing the most up-to-date learning experience possible.

Speaking at the launch event, Mr Clarke, who is also an ambassador for vocational training, said that the TEC Centre would give students the chance to become the tradespeople of tomorrow.

Mr Clarke has also recently played a central role in creating plans for the regeneration of his hometown of Sunderland. 

Peter Mayhew-Smith, principal of Carshalton College, said the centre would transform the learning environment for students, helping them to take advantage of all the opportunities that are set to be created in sectors such as construction.

He said that those enrolling at the TEC Centre would be able to immerse themselves in their chosen profession, and make the most of the high-tech, industry-standard equipment on offer.