EAL latest news and updates – July 2026

News & updates

Countdown to Vocational Celebration Day!

With less than one week to go until the UK's first Vocational Celebration Day on Thursday 6 August, excitement is building as broadcaster and former apprentice Steph McGovern prepares to host a special live edition of Steph on Skills: Powered by Enginuity from 10am at Teagle Machinery Ltd in Cornwall. The nationwide celebration will bring together learners, employers, educators and sector leaders to recognise vocational achievement and champion the value of technical education.

Created by Enginuity and EAL, Vocational Celebration Day aims to give vocational pathways the recognition they deserve and highlight the essential role skilled people play in powering the UK's future. Steph is encouraging everyone to get involved by celebrating vocational learners, sharing success stories and joining the live broadcast. 

Find out more and get involved

EAL continues support for WorldSkills UK Metal Fabricator Competition

EAL is proud to be sponsoring the WorldSkills UK Metal Fabricator Competition for the third consecutive year, reinforcing its commitment to developing the next generation of engineering talent. Throughout the regional qualifying rounds, the EAL team has supported competitors and celebrated the dedication of colleges and training providers hosting events across the UK.

With the regional stages now complete, EAL looks forward to continuing its support at the WorldSkills UK Metal Fabricator Competition Finals in Newport this November. Congratulations to all the finalists, and thank you to every college and training provider that helped make this year's competition a success.

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Nine EAL engineering and manufacturing qualifications approved for Free Courses for Jobs

From 1 August 2026, nine EAL engineering and manufacturing qualifications will be available through the Free Courses for Jobs programme, following approval by the Department for Education. The expanded offer will give training providers more opportunities to deliver fully funded, industry-recognised qualifications for adult learners, helping to address engineering and manufacturing skills shortages while supporting progression into employment.

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Qualification updates - July 2026

We’re pleased to bring you the latest updates on qualifications this month. This edition covers a range of changes, including new qualifications, amendments to qualification structures, extensions following review, and document updates.

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How Gower College Swansea is developing welding talent

Gower College Swansea delivers a comprehensive welding provision designed to equip learners with the practical skills, knowledge and industry-recognised qualifications required for a successful career in engineering and fabrication. We use EAL welding qualifications due to their strong industry reputation, flexibility and alignment with employer expectations, ensuring our learners achieve relevant and valued skills. 

The support provided by EAL, including qualification guidance, technical expertise and responsive customer service, enables us to deliver high-quality training and assessment that meets the needs of both learners and industry. Our partnership with EAL helps us continue to develop our welding offer and provide clear progression opportunities for learners into employment and further professional development. 

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Celebrating excellence at the Enginuity Skills Awards 2026

EAL was proud to celebrate the winners and finalists recognised at the Enginuity Skills Awards 2026, held on 1 July at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge. Bringing together employers, educators and sector leaders, the awards recognised the people and organisations making an outstanding contribution to engineering, manufacturing and building services engineering, while inspiring the next generation of skilled talent.

As sponsor of the Training Provider Skills Champion of the Year award, EAL congratulated Ayrshire College for its work strengthening Scotland's engineering and aerospace skills pipeline through employer collaboration, apprenticeships and upskilling. EAL also recognised all winners and finalists whose innovation, partnerships and commitment to skills development are helping to build a stronger future for the sector.

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Upcoming events

T Level Occupational Specialism Support webinar

Join EAL in July or August for an informative webinar designed for providers delivering Building Services Engineering (BSE) T Levels, focused on the Occupational Specialisms for Generation 2.

This session will provide an overview of the support available to help you effectively deliver these occupational specialisms, ensuring you and your team are equipped with the knowledge and resources required for successful delivery.

Whether you are new to delivering BSE T Levels or looking to enhance your current provision, this webinar will offer valuable insights, practical guidance, and an opportunity to explore how best to support your learners.

Event details:

• 12.30pm-1.30pm on Thursday, 27 August 2026

Book your space

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