Education Partnership North East
Education Partnership North East (EPNE) is one of the largest and highest-performing college groups in the UK, bringing together Sunderland College, Northumberland College and Hartlepool Sixth Form College. We provide outstanding education, skills and training opportunities across the North East, helping people of all ages unlock their potential, create opportunities and transform their lives.
What We Do
We offer a wide range of academic, technical and vocational programmes, including:
- Further Education (16-18 study programmes)
- A Levels
- T Levels
- Apprenticeships
- Adult learning (Ages 19+)
- Higher Education
- Online/ Virtual Learning courses
- Specialist SEND provision
Our curriculum is designed to equip learners with the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to succeed in employment, higher study and life.
Support Employers and Workforce Development
We work closely with businesses across the region to:
- Recruit staff, apprentices and trainees
- Upskill existing staff
- Deliver bespoke training programmes
- Address skills shortages
- Support workforce planning and development
Drive Economic Growth
Our sector specialisms align with regional and national skills priorities, including:
- Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering
- Construction and Housing
- Digital Industries
- Health and Social Care
- Early Years and Education
- Professional Business Services
- Retail and Hospitality
- Land-based Industries and Animal Care
By developing future-ready skills, we help strengthen communities and support economic growth across the North East.
Our Values
Our culture is built around four core values:
- Courage – We boldly approach the future with confidence and energy
- Authenticity – We are who we day we are, we do what we say we will do
- Respect –We nurture a community where everyone is welcome and belongs
- Excellence – We strive for excellence at the heart of everything we do
Recognition
EPNE was rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted in 2024 and is recognised as one of the top-performing college groups in the North East for student achievement.