Andy Carter, MP for Warrington South, has welcomed the new Principal of Priestley College James Gresty to his position. The Warrington MP met with Mr Gresty in his first few weeks in the position and got the opportunity to talk to staff and pupils about reopening during coronavirus.
Speaking about the visit, MP Andy Carter said:
It was brilliant to be back Priestley College to see the great work going on there by the teachers, support staff and pupils.
It’s clear that Mr Gresty has a vision for the future which will hopefully see the college going from strength to strength. More immediately, ensuring students have a full timetable, whether that’s within the college itself or studying from home.
We need all students to continue to receive high-quality education and training, no matter where they grow up or what college they go to. Now more than ever, it is vital that colleges such as Priestley can support their students to gain the skills they need to progress and help us level up the economy.
Principal James Gresty commented:
I was delighted to have met Andy last week and to have had the opportunity to discuss our shared vision for education in the area. I am proud to be leading such an outstanding college community with so many inspiring students and dedicated staff.
As Priestley College enters its 41st year, I’m excited about the future and look forward to continuing the strong working relationship we have with Andy and his team in supporting the local community and improving the opportunities and life chances for young people across the region.
Providers of 16-19 education such as further education and sixth form colleges last year received £400 million additional funding to train and teach our young people the skills they need for well-paid jobs in the modern economy. The boost is the single biggest annual increase for the sector since 2010 with colleges across Warrington and in the North West benefiting.
With extra funding and improved standards over the years, Priestley College has been able to expand its curriculum and offer a new range of skills to pupils. The Government has put more of an emphasis now on crucial subjects such as engineering which lead to higher wages and, ultimately, a more productive economy which is vital to levelling up.
