Inspire Education Group (IEG) has received the Sustainability Award at the 2025 Peterborough Telegraph Business Awards, recognising its sector-leading approach to environmental responsibility, innovation, and education.
IEG was commended for embedding sustainability across all aspects of its work, from curriculum and estate development to staff engagement and student-led initiatives. Judges highlighted achievements such as transforming disused furniture into zero-cost, fully repurposed recycling stations, improving energy efficiency across the estate, and maintaining the highest level of Investors in the Environment accreditation.
A major milestone in IEG’s sustainability journey is the launch of the Centre for Green Technology at Peterborough College, part-funded through the Local Skills Investment Fund (LSIF). Designed to be net-zero ready and powered by solar energy, the Centre equips students with practical skills in low-carbon retrofit, renewable energy, and electric vehicle systems – directly preparing learners for roles in emerging green sectors.
From a Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) perspective, IEG’s achievements provide a clear example of how education providers can respond to employer-identified skills needs, particularly in green technologies, low-carbon retrofit, renewable energy, and electric vehicle systems. The LSIP, delivered by the Chamber Skills Team, has identified these areas as priorities through extensive consultations with employers across construction, utilities, advanced manufacturing, and other sectors.
The Chamber Skills Team enjoys a strong relationship with IEG, collaborating on projects that support regional skills development and workforce readiness. Green skills are a major focus for the team, and initiatives like the Centre for Green Technology highlight how FE and HE providers are helping to build a future-ready, sustainable workforce for Peterborough and the wider region.
We look forward to continuing our support for IEG and thank them for the ongoing contribution they make to Skills Team projects and the wider skills ecosystem. Their award-winning work is an inspiring example of what can be achieved when education, employers, and local partnerships work together towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Congratulations to IEG and all the winners.