Transport Minister praises Hartlepool College

​Hartlepool College of Further Education welcomed the Minister of State for Transport, Andrew Stephenson MP, to its Hartlepool Campus  (Monday 11th October).

The Minister, whose portfolio includes HS2, Northern Powerhouse Rail, and skills, was shown around the College's Skills Academy, including dedicated workshops for Bench Fitting, Automotive Engineering (inc Electric Car), Electrical Installation, Brickwork, Carpentry, and the unique and exclusive Aircraft Hangar. guided by Gary Riches (Assistant Principal), John Strickland (Head of School of Engineering), and John Cartwright (Head of School of Construction and the Built Environment.

During his visit, Mr. Stephenson toured the campus and met learners and staff, at each workshop/area discussing and the key roles the College will play in creating the next generation of skilled workers in the sector of Automotive Engineering, Transport, and Aviation. The Minister said; "It’s always a pleasure to visit Hartlepool, but on Monday even more so than ever! I had the wonderful opportunity to visit Hartlepool FE College: an educational institution that has been part of the fabric of the local community for over a century. Gary Riches, a former student at the college and now Assistant Principal, was proud to give me an overview of its rich history and the high expectations it has for all its learners. I was given a tour of the Engineering & Construction workshop and the College’s specialist Aviation, Travel and Tourism classroom (with accompanying fuselage!). There is no question that students at Hartlepool FE College have access to some amazing facilities that enable them to build key skills and develop a deep knowledge – employers and businesses take note – Hartlepool has the talent for you!

Mr. Stephenson then headed up to the College's unique and dedicated purpose-built Fuselage for Aviation, Travel and Tourism Students to get hands-on training and experience, guided by Sarah Paterson (Lecturer).

Gary Riches (Assistant Principal) commenting said: "Being an ex-student at Hartlepool College it’s always great to show off the exceptional work our staff and students do day in day out in our world-class facilities.  To be able highlight the College’s history is everything to me, as I am part of that and now, as a current member of staff, I’m proud to be part of a culture that will leave this College in a better place than when we became the current custodians. This College is the future of this town and beyond, as we deliver the knowledge, skills and qualifications that our learners need to progress into the world of work or higher education.  With the expectations and behaviours we have for our learners, we also empower them with the right attitude, behaviours and confidence to be truly exceptional people in whatever they choose to do."