AMBITIOUS plans are moving ahead to set up a technical university in south Essex, backed by leading employers including the Port of Tilbury and DP World in Thurrock.

The new university could see the first degree apprenticeships offered next year.

The Association of South Essex Local Authorities (ASELA) says it hopes to sign up students for a range of vocational courses starting in September.

The association is currently in talks for a university to get on board with the scheme to validate degree courses but it's unlikely they will be delivered in an academic establishment.

Instead, companies across south Essex, including Ford, DP World, Leonardo and Olympus and the Port of Tilbury will offer work-based courses on site.

The association, formed by Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford, Southend, Thurrock and Essex councils says the technical university has "the potential to transform the current higher education offering with a comprehensive and consistent portfolio of work-based learning courses, including degree apprenticeships, for both young people and reskilling of existing employees".

Ian Gilbert, councillor responsible for economic recovery, regeneration and housing at Southend Council, said: "We aren't really talking about a traditional campus-based university. The Port of Tilbury, Ford, Southend Airport and some other big businesses are very interested in it.

"We're looking for an academic partner who would validate the degrees but it will be learning with jobs with various companies. The plan is to take the first students by September 2023. We would start with a small cohort and build on it."

Mr Gilbert added: "The courses aren't finalised but they will be things like engineering, ITC and business administration."

In a report, ASELA said: "The programme will reach into the school system to encourage students from communities that wouldn't historically have considered higher skills as attainable.

"A full business case is in preparation that will map out the steps to procuring a higher education provider to offer the first tranche of degree apprenticeship courses starting in September 2023.

"The association's joint committee is working on a business case and financial model for the university and the establishment of a business advisory forum to support wider business interest around the university.