RNN Group opens South Yorkshire’s first logistics training hub to boost regional skills and employment
A cutting-edge Logistics Training Hub has officially opened this week, providing hands-on forklift truck training and warehouse operations experience in South Yorkshire’s first purpose-built simulation warehouse.
The new facility, run by vocational and technical education provider RNN Group, marks a major investment in the region’s skills infrastructure, supporting both learners and employers in one of the UK’s fastest-growing industries.
What is the Logistics Training Hub?
The Logistics Training Hub is located in the old Rotherham College construction centre on Rawmarsh Road.
At the heart of the new hub is a realistic warehouse environment with racking and pallets, designed to replicate the layout, pace and precision of a real working logistics environment.
Trainees will gain practical experience using industry-standard forklift trucks and materials-handling systems. The immersive, scenario-based training will see learners practice manoeuvring the forklift truck around various obstacles while learning essential safety procedures.
Along with the simulated warehousing space there are also two dedicated classrooms for theoretical learning.
The facility is open to individuals new to the industry, those looking to retrain, and experienced workers aiming to upskill or gain certification.
Offering a fast-track route into accreditation, the hub will offer funded provision for job seekers, employer-funded courses for those already in employment, and South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) skills bootcamps for young people not in education or employment.
The hub will be led by Steve Roberts, an experienced forklift truck training manager. Steve has helped grow the idea of having a dedicated centre; he previously delivered courses at a small independent training provider in Mexborough that didn’t have any physical equipment for learners to practice with.
He is joined by two specialist instructors who are both accredited forklift truck drivers. Together, they will be delivering the Level 2 Warehousing and Forklift Truck Training, with training to RTITB standards.
As learners progress to observation and certification, they will also be offered careers advice and guidance to help them swiftly find employment.
The new Logistics Training Hub was officially opened on Monday 20th October, with South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard and other local dignitaries in attendance.
Supporting Regional Growth
The new training centre is a major boost for the Sheffield City Region, helping to close local skills gaps and strengthen the workforce that underpins the area’s growing logistics economy.
The project has been spearheaded by Daniel Stanbra, RNN Group’s vice principal for adult education, commercial and partnership strategy, who says that the need for a specialist facility arose from an increased demand for accreditation from employers.
“We know the logistics and supply chain sector is a cornerstone of the South Yorkshire economy. From the Evri, Amazon and IKEA warehouses to the Ergo Park development off the A57, logistics has become one of the biggest sectors locally and employers are crying out for skilled, certified workers. This new training centre ensures local residents can develop those skills right here in our region.”
According to the SYMCA, the logistics, warehousing and distribution sectors are expected to generate thousands of new roles over the next five years, from warehouse operatives and forklift drivers to site operatives and tradespeople.
Having a dedicated training centre will address the shortage of skilled workers by providing accessible, high-quality training that helps people gain the skills and confidence to enter or progress within the industry.
For employers, it will create a pipeline of skilled, work-ready talent, helping the local economy remain competitive and resilient.
It will also support the region’s levelling-up ambitions by giving individuals across South Yorkshire access to practical, high-quality training, regardless of background or previous experience, and a direct route into secure, well-paid careers.
Levelling Up Career Pathways
Gaining forklift truck accreditation can be a powerful step forward for anyone looking to progress beyond an entry-level position.
For many warehouse operatives or general labourers, earning a recognised forklift qualification not only increases employability but also opens doors to higher-paid roles with greater responsibility, such as shift supervisor or warehouse coordinator.
The accredited training demonstrates practical skill, safety awareness and commitment to professional development – qualities that employers value when promoting from within or recruiting for skilled logistics roles.
This new facility gives our learners the chance to experience the demands of a real warehouse before entering employment, preparing people to be confident, competent safety-aware and work-ready from day one.
New CSCS Test Centre coming soon
To further support local employment pathways, RNN Group is also set to open Rotherham’s first CSCS Test Centre later this term at University Centre Rotherham.
The CSCS Test Centre will provide a convenient, local facility for individuals to complete the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test required to obtain a CSCS card, the essential qualification for anyone working on UK construction sites.
“RNN Group’s investment in the new CSCS centre means people no longer need to travel outside Rotherham to gain essential site accreditation,” added Daniel. “It’s a major boost for local accessibility, particularly for those taking their first steps into construction.”
The CSCS test centre will be a dedicated space within University Centre Rotherham with all sector-leading IT equipment for candidates to complete their test. We can also offer the health and safety course element as a bolt-on if needed.
By offering this test at the group’s dedicated higher education centre, it is also hoped it will inspire construction workers who may never have considered higher education to find out more about what courses are available in their hometown to help them upskill further.
The Logistics Training Hub now open, with course enrolments and test bookings available immediately.
Further information
Get in touch for more information about when test slots will be available at the new Rotherham CSCS test centre.