This project focused on maintaining and developing specialist skills and expertise that are not forthcoming in new recruits. The college looked to develop flexibility in working patterns and retirement options, drawing on older workers’ knowledge and skills to meet the shortfall in the combination of skills required to support learners with particular disabilities. The project helped to retain established specialists’ knowledge and skills through shadowing and informal mentoring, growing specialist skills in-house and recognising and valuing the role of older workers in building staff capacity.