Major Boost for Yeovil as Government Awards New Medium Lift Helicopter Contract to Leonardo
Yeovil College is proud to celebrate the landmark announcement that the UK Government has officially awarded the New Medium Lift Helicopter (MLH) contract to Leonardo in Yeovil. This decision secures the long term future of the UK’s only remaining military helicopter manufacturing site and protects thousands of highly skilled jobs across the region.
As a long standing and trusted partner of Leonardo, Yeovil College plays a vital role in developing the next generation of engineers, technicians, and specialists who contribute to this internationally recognised capability. Through our apprenticeships, technical programmes, and employer led training, we provide the essential talent pipeline that supports both current and future workforce needs.
This announcement reinforces what Yeovil already knows: our town is a thriving centre of engineering excellence, powered by innovation, skills, and opportunity, and Yeovil College learners sit at the heart of it.
Impact for Yeovil College and the Region
The Government’s decision represents a significant step forward for education, skills development, and long-term career prospects across South Somerset. It will support:
• A secure future for high value engineering careers
Ensuring stability and growth for the region’s advanced manufacturing and aerospace sectors.
• Continued investment in local skills and training
Strengthening education, apprenticeships, and professional upskilling across Yeovil and the wider area.
• Enhanced pathways for young people
Providing school leavers and adult learners with clear, exciting routes into advanced engineering and manufacturing roles.
• Deepened collaboration with Leonardo
Enabling Yeovil College to further align its curriculum, facilities, and apprenticeship programmes with real industry needs.
• A thriving sector for learners to build their futures
Offering Yeovil College students, apprentices, and degree apprentices a stable and expanding industry to progress into.
The awarding of the New Medium Helicopter contract represents a significant moment for Yeovil and the South West. It strengthens high-value employment, reinforces the local supply chain, and creates powerful opportunities to inspire and develop the next generation of technical talent.
It also aligns closely with the College’s strategic ambition to secure forthcoming Defence Technical Excellence College status, further cementing our role in delivering specialist engineering and defence-related skills provision. Sustained investment in programmes such as this directly supports that ambition and the continued growth of advanced technical training in the region.
A Proud Moment for Yeovil
This achievement marks an inspiring milestone for the town, its future workforce, and every Yeovil College learner who aspires to design, build, and innovate.
Together with Leonardo, Yeovil College is shaping the next generation of British engineering, right here in Yeovil.