New learning link for deprived Wirral areas (From Wirral Globe)

New learning link for deprived Wirral areas

11:13am Friday 21st November 2008

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Wirral could be one of 20 areas across the country to be given a new higher education facility, giving all residents the choice of learning closer to home.

Earlier this year, the Higher Education Funding Council for England proposal, "A new University Challenge – Unlocking Britain’s talent," outlined the Government’s plan to see new Higher Education Centres developed.

Although Wirral has abov-average levels of people with university qualifications, the council says it recognises there are significant pockets of inequality in the borough’s deprived areas where educational attainment is low.

Wirral Council, in partnership with the University of Chester and Wirral Metropolitan College, has been working to develop a proposal for a new University of Chester facility for Wirral.

The proposal has secured the support of the Northwest Development Agency and Wirral’s Investment Strategy Board. It also has the support of the University of Liverpool.

Wirral Council’s cabinet will consider the proposal on November 27.

A detailed application will be submitted to the Higher Education Funding Council early in the new year, with a decision expected in the Spring.

Wirral Council leader Cllr Steve Foulkes said: “I am proud to support the bid for the new facility that would play an important part in delivering the skills elements of our Investment Strategy. A new Higher Education facility is critically important to the future of Wirral.

"It could both unlock the talents of our residents and play a critical role in our work to develop a more competitive and innovative economy locally.

"This new venture would maximise the opportunities available to both local people and the communities in which they live.

“We are absolutely committed to unlocking the talent of Wirral people by ensuring they can access higher level skills training that will enable them to compete for quality jobs in Wirral and beyond.”

Chief Executive of the Northwest Development Agency, Steven Broomhead: “I am pleased to support this important and much needed proposal. A Higher Education facility would enable more people from Wirral’s deprived areas to access Higher Education.

The University of Chester’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tim Wheeler: “The University looks forward to working in partnership over the coming months to deliver this significant opportunity for Wirral.

"We are committed to ensuring that Wirral people reap the benefits of this major economic regeneration opportunity and have the chance, both to realise their learning potential and therefore enhance their quality of life.”

Principal of Wirral Metropolitan College, Mike Potter said: “I have no doubt that if our partnership is successful in securing Government funding available through the University Challenge, this exciting new partnership will provide our local community, particularly those in most need, with a real chance to access and develop their career chances and choices.“

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