Bournemouth and Poole College welcomed the Mayor of Poole, Councillor Mark Howell, to see how specialist facilities and training are helping young people prepare for work.
The visit to the college’s Poole Campus on Monday, 2 February, is part of the College’s ongoing commitment to strengthening links with local civic leaders and reinforcing its role at the heart of Poole’s community. The Mayor met with staff and students, as well as learning more about the facilities and training opportunities available across the campus.
The Mayor visited key curriculum areas which have seen millions of pounds of investment over the past five years, including the Health & Care Academy, Esports and Podcast Studio, Stop Motion Studio, Green Energy Centre, Marine and Advanced Engineering workshops, Art & Design studios and University Centre Poole. Staff provided demonstrations of specialist equipment and learning spaces, while students spoke about their courses, projects and career aspirations.
The visit highlighted Bournemouth and Poole College’s contribution to local skills development, innovation and progression into employment and higher education. Discussions focused on how high-quality facilities and strong links with industry and the community enhance the student experience and contribute to the wider social and economic well-being of Poole.
Councillor Mark Howell, Mayor of Poole, said: “Bournemouth and Poole College is clearly playing a central role in preparing young people for the world of work. The investment in specialist facilities, combined with courses developed in close partnership with employers, means students are gaining the practical, relevant skills that local industries are looking for. This kind of education is essential not only for individual success, but for the continued prosperity of Poole and the wider area.”
Phil Sayles, Principal and CEO said: “We were delighted to welcome the Mayor of Poole to our campus. The Mayor took time to talk with our students and understand the benefits they are gaining from college education, for example, in areas like Health and Care, vital to Poole and other local communities. In turn, students were intrigued by the chains of office the Mayor wore, and their history.”
“We value the continued support and interest of the Mayor and are deeply committed to working closely with local partners to support students, employers and the wider community.”
