Develop Training, in partnership with Northern Gas Networks (NGN), has been awarded the prestigious Skills Collaboration Initiative of the Year Award by EU Skills, an employer-led membership organisation that helps to ensure the gas, power, waste management and water industries have the skills they need – now and in the future. This accolade celebrates Develop's ongoing collaboration with NGN, which began over seven years ago, and the impact the company has made in developing skilled professionals in the gas industry.

Develop's journey with NGN began in 2017 when they welcomed their first delegate to the York training centre. Since then, the partnership has continued to flourish, most recently with the unveiling of a major joint project known as the Joint Emergency Training Set (JETSET), but more commonly referred to as ‘Training Terrace.’ In collaboration with NGN, Develop and its parent company JTL invested over £500,000 into creating this purpose-built, fully-to-scale artificial street whcih allows gas and energy professionals to experience and practice responding to emergency incidents in a realistic yet controlled environment.

A real-world environment for safely training gas operatives

The training environment simulates emergency scenarios such as gas escapes, while also providing opportunities for training in customer service, first aid, confined space operations, and the detection of hazards like carbon monoxide. ‘Training Terrace’ is not only a testament to Develop & NGN’s commitment to practical training of the highest quality, but also a demonstration of how real-world challenges can be safely recreated for effective learning.

Since its opening in May 2023, over 800 NGN professionals – from apprentices to seasoned operatives – have undergone training at ‘Training Terrace.’ This state-of-the-art facility has helped instill a culture of safety and preparedness, ensuring that NGN operatives are well-equipped to manage the complexities of their roles and confidently apply their skills in real-world situations.

Chris Adair, Apprenticeship & Training Manager for NGN, reflected on the achievement,

"This award is a testament to the dedication of both our team and Develop in creating a world-class training environment. Together, we are not only enhancing skills but also fostering a culture of safety, preparedness, and service to the communities we work in."

A long-term relationship

Develop’s partnership with NGN has driven significant progress in skills development and safety standards across the utilities sector. The creation of ‘Training Terrace’ has enabled NGN to invest in both the practical and theoretical development of its workforce, whilst also demonstrating their commitment to ongoing training excellence.

NGN has also supported the continued development of Develop’s York training centre, recently contributing to the construction of a purpose-built gas training building and the acquisition of advanced equipment, including low-to-medium pressure gas rigs and gas tents.

Develop’s Interim Head of Operations and Training, Daryll Garavan, remarked:

"We are immensely proud of this win as it highlights our pivotal role in driving high-quality, impactful training for the UK utilities sector. As we look to the future, both Develop and NGN remain committed to enhancing the skills of professionals across the industry, ensuring that the essential services provided to millions of people each day are delivered safely and efficiently."

Finalists for Training Provision of the Year Award

In addition to this win, Develop was also a finalist for the Training Provision of the Year award.

Further informationFor more information about Training Terrace or Develop’s range of industry-leading training programmes, please contact our Customer Service Team on 0800 876 6708 or email enquiries@developtraining.co.uk