The new Doncaster iPort Academy officially opened its doors this week (20 July) in Rossington.   

Business Doncaster and developer Verdion have launched the new iPort Academy to work with the key employers coming to the £500 million iPort scheme, facilitating employment in the region.

iPort, a major multi-modal logistics development on a 337-acre site, has already announced its first tenant – Fellowes. The developer is in advanced negotiations with a number of other occupiers for the site to be announced in the coming weeks. Residents across the borough who are keen to access these job opportunities can do so through the iPort Academy, which is based on West End Lane in Rossington, Doncaster.

The new Academy will help to signpost individuals to available jobs, apprenticeships, professional qualifications and training which will help them to obtain the skills they require to pursue a new career or upskill those currently working in the logistics sector.

John Clements, Verdion’s European Development Director welcomed the iPort Academy and said “It’s great to be here today to be part of the launch of the iPort Academy. We have a very exciting few years ahead of us as we begin to fill the iPort scheme with occupiers that will bring jobs and other economic benefits to the area.

“With the strong backing of our funding partner HOOPP, we are pushing forward with development. We have secured the first letting to Fellowes and hope to announce further lettings shortly to occupiers who will very much welcome the access to potential employees that the Academy will provide.”

Councillor Bill Mordue, Portfolio holder for Business, Skills, Tourism and Culture said: “By providing this unique service to both employers and local residents we will be able to match employers to the skilled and experienced workforce we have here in Doncaster. Logistics is a huge area of growth in the region as we move to develop Doncaster for the future. In the next few years we are going to see thousands of new jobs created in the sector and the iPort Academy will play a vital role in providing the access and skills required for the logistics industry and ensure that local people get the training they need to benefit from the jobs being created.”

Scott Cardwell, Assistant Director for Development at Doncaster Council added: “Supply chain logistics are fundamental to the iPort and a key priority for our region’s economic growth. Logistics and transport is a growing industry and can provide some really exciting career opportunities and by working with our partners such as the College and local training providers, we can provide a pathway for young people to get the skills they need to really forge a successful career in the industry. The iPort scheme is looking to create around 5,000 jobs and we are looking forward to working with partners in supporting the delivery of these local jobs.”

For further information please visit http://www.businessdoncaster.com/iportacademy/ or call George Baker on 01302 249091