Joint training programmes are set to be developed by East Kent College and the Port of Dover in the new year.

Port chief executive Tim Waggott and college principal Graham Razey signed a memorandum of understanding which looks at how to develop the skills of local people.

It also focuses on what skills are required to support the port’s development, specifically the revival of the Western Docks, which is set to open up 600 jobs, safeguarding 140.

Once the skills have been identified, the two organisations will then tailor specific training programmes.

Mr Razey said: “Since taking on the Dover campus from the former K College and establishing a base at Discovery Park, we have worked hard to get to know the local business community and better understand their needs in terms of skills and training.

“It is clear from our conversations with Tim and his colleagues that we have a shared vision for a stronger, more dynamic Dover economy with a greater emphasis on matching the skills needs of business with the vocational skills we are helping to deliver, particularly those of the port.

“This agreement is the first of what we hope will be a series of strategic alliances with the major businesses that are driving the economy of Dover, Shepway and Thanet forward.”

Mr Waggott said: “Our plans for the revival of the Western Docks have been warmly welcomed by local residents and businesses.

'Our plans for the revival of the Western Docks have been warmly welcomed by local residents and businesses.' Chief executive, Tim Waggott

“This agreement will help ensure that local people will be able to gain the necessary skills and be well placed to benefit from the future growth of the port.

“As we invest in our future and that of Dover, there will be a greater demand for appropriately skilled people, and we need to ensure that we can continue to and increasingly recruit them locally to support our growth. This agreement is therefore extremely important in ensuring our collective ability to help strengthen the economy of Dover, and east Kent more widely.”

Together, the organisations will focus on providing high-quality equipment for the delivery of the programmes, as well as joint funding bids.

It will allow students the chance to undertake work placement and experience opportunities within the port industry.