Local MP, Maria Miller, cut the ribbon at the opening of Basingstoke College of Technology’s (BCoT) brand new University Centre.
Maria said: “The absence of higher-level provision in the Borough has been long-standing. Therefore I am so glad to see the opening of this University Centre, which signifies BCoT’s ambition to play a leading role in the delivery of a sustainable Higher Education provision in Basingstoke. This is a great addition for the town, providing specialist courses and training that will upskill our workforce for the growing number of high-skilled jobs in our local economy.
“The Auger review into post-18 education and training highlighted the key roles colleges have in delivering Higher Education. BCoT has long been adept at partnering with employers and other education providers to ensure excellent opportunities and learning experiences for their students. Therefore, they are in a great position to push on into the Higher Education sector. I am confident that this new facility will help to expand and develop this expertise, utilising industry trained lecturers, as well as close links with employers and top universities, such as Reading and Portsmouth.
“I want to wish BCoT and all its students fortunate enough to get to utilise this fantastic new centre, the best of luck going forward.”