The Institute of Carpenters (IOC) is delighted to confirm that Wigan & Leigh College has joined the IOC as a College member.
Wigan & Leigh College was recently announced by the Government as one of the ten Construction Technical Excellence Colleges (CTEC’s) across England.
Speaking of the membership, Neil Campbell, Assistant Principal, said:
“We see the membership as more of a partnership. We want to work together for the benefit of all our students and collectively help shape what ‘excellence’ means through this new government scheme.”
The key benefits for Wigan & Leigh College and its students of IOC membership are:
- Free Student Membership: All eligible students will now receive free individual membership of the IOC, granting them professional recognition while they train.
- Industry Networking: Students will gain access to IOC’s network, including its online platform, Glue Up, as well as face-to-face events. Wigan & Leigh College have already expressed an interest in supporting the newly established IOC regions.
- Annual Awards: The college will be eligible to put forward exceptional students, or indeed itself, for recognition under the various IOC award schemes. This includes the Duchess of Gloucester Award.
- Mentorship and CPD: IOC members can join the newly developed Wood/Work programme, which supports new entrants in the wood trades through their first year of employment, with mentoring and additional opportunities to learn.
James Filus, Director of the IOC, said:
“With Wigan & Leigh College joining the IOC, we are fortunate to now be working with more than half of the new CTEC’s. This is something we’re very proud of and keen to ensure benefits all. The enthusiasm and energy from the college to see our membership as a partnership opportunity is greatly valued and we look forward to working together.”
About the Institute of Carpenters
The Institute of Carpenters (IOC) was established in 1890, to help maintain standards and skills at a time when traditional skills were being lost. Its mission is to promote, support, and develop its members, and the sector more broadly.
About Wigan & Leigh College
Wigan & Leigh College has been providing high-quality education and training locally for over 160 years and higher education for over 70 years. It’s the only General Further Education College in the towns of Wigan and Leigh, serving a population of approximately 301,000. As the college for technical excellence, we’re committed to raising learning aspirations and helping our community thrive socially and economically.

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