FURTHER Education Commissioner, Ellen Thinnesen OBE, has praised the facilities at Cornwall College St Austell during a recent visit.

The visit coincided with a significant milestone for the college, as students and staff stepped into the new, purpose-built Kaolin building for the first time.

It also highlighted the importance of learning environments in developing skills, creating career opportunities and strengthening Cornwall’s economy.

Commenting on her visit, Ellen said: “I think this is a college that is going to thrive into the future. It is led by leaders and governors who understand the importance of contextual places and insuring each of its campuses can meet local need.

Rob Bosworth, CEO Cornwall College Group, FE Commissioner Ellen Thinnesen OBE, Laetitia Mayne Principal of Cornwall College St Austell
Rob Bosworth, CEO Cornwall College Group, with FE Commissioner Ellen Thinnesen OBE (middle), and Laetitia Mayne, principal of Cornwall College St Austell

“This is an inclusive college group, and I have listened to the stories of the student profiles and ambitious curriculum strategy going forward, with inclusion at its heart. I’m really excited to see what will happen with this college group in the future, there’s a lot to be proud of. I’m just blown away with everything that I have seen.”

Rob Bosworth, CEO of Cornwall College Group, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Ellen Thinnesen to St Austell and give her the opportunity to see first-hand the progress being made.

“Her visit was a valuable opportunity to showcase our ambition and demonstrate how world-class facilities can help further education make a real difference in Cornwall and beyond.”

For college principal, Laetitia Mayne, welcoming Ellen at this pivotal moment was an opportunity to highlight what the transformation means for the town and its future.

Laetitia said: “It’s an exciting new chapter for the college, this is about so much more than new buildings. It’s about creating opportunities for the people of St Austell.

“From giving young people the chance to study A-levels locally to helping learners of all ages develop the skills and confidence to take their next steps, we’re helping build a stronger future for our community, and it was important we share this with the FE Commissioner.”