A Midland university has signed a deal with an automotive parts supplier to create an in-house training centre.

A deal has been signed by the University of Wolverhampton, Walsall College and Darlaston-based ZF Lemforder UK.

German-owned ZF has been in the UK since 1973 and makes driveline and chassis components for car manufacturers, including Jaguar, BMW and Land Rover.

Another manufacturing plant in Solihull assembles axle modules for Land Rover’s Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models.

The company will work with the university and college to design and accredit a series of courses that could lead to vocational qualifications and university awards.

Professor Ian Oakes, Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise at the university, said: “We are delighted to have signed this agreement with ZF, sealing this exciting new relationship as part of our commitment to business and enterprise.

“By the end of the two-year project ZF will have a training centre and an agreed suite of courses in place as well as a strategic plan for future staff development.”

The courses will include operator training, both on and off the job, leading to qualifications such as NVQ Engineering, and work-based Masters degrees and doctorates.