Minister for skills & apprenticeships conducts virtual visit to local college

Gillian Keegan, Minister for Skills & Apprenticeships today conducted a virtual visit to Moulton College in Northamptonshire to hear how the specialist landbased College has successfully responded to the challenges of the Covid pandemic.

The Minister heard how, despite the lockdown earlier in the year, the College has enjoyed one of its most successful periods in recent times, increasing its student achievement rates by 19% and recruiting an additional 300 students to its varied range of courses which started in September. 

Despite covering some 450 hectares, extensive college wide safety measures were put in place enabling all students to return to full-time teaching on courses including animal welfare, construction, agriculture and sport.

During the virtual visit the Minister met with Principal & CEO Corrie Harris and Chair of Governors, David McVean before speaking to students at different locations across the College. She was able to see first-hand the fantastic resources the College has and how this positively impacts upon the student’s experience.

Corrie Harris said: 

“We were delighted to be able to welcome the Minister to Moulton College and provide an overview of what has been a really incredible year for us. We are exceptionally proud of the way the Moulton team have pulled together to ensure that our students are not disadvantaged in any way and achieve exceptionally high outcomes. We continue to engage with employers at all levels in order that our students are equipped with the qualifications and high level skills needed for the future, so that they can progress onto higher education or into employment.”

Minister for Apprenticeships and Skills, Gillian Keegan said:

“I really enjoyed my visit to land-based Moulton College with my colleague, local MP Chris Heaton-Harris, and virtually meeting some of their fantastic stonemason, animal welfare, agriculture and bakery students. It was great to hear how the College has overcome challenges and see first-hand the positive impact it is having on the local community, equipping learners with the important skills our land, food and agricultural industries need to thrive. I look forward to visiting in person for the centennial year in 2021.”