MP Visits Preston College to Explore High-Level Technical Training and Regional Skills Development
Preston College was delighted to welcome Maya Ellis MP, Member of Parliament for Ribble Valley, to its campus on Friday 14 February to explore how the college, as a founding member of the region’s Lancashire and Cumbria Institute of Technology (IoT), is driving innovation in technical education and addressing critical skills gaps in the region. Maya, who has served as an MP since July 2024, brings extensive experience from her eight years in local government, where she played a key role in securing investment for the area, including her work as Innovation and Digital Lead in Economic Development at Lancashire County Council.
Preston College is at the forefront of delivering transformative, industry-focused education designed to equip students with the skills required by regional employers. During her visit, Maya Ellis MP met with students and staff to see first-hand how IoT funding has enhanced the college’s facilities and curriculum, particularly in priority sectors such as construction, engineering, health & social care (mental health), and counselling.
The visit began in the Health and Social Care department, where Maya engaged with T Level students and department members, discussing the diversity of career opportunities, as well as the ongoing digital transformation within the sector. Preston College collaborates closely with industry experts to ensure its curriculum reflects the evolving needs of the sector—from frontline care roles to specialist support services. The discussion highlighted how the college’s strong employer links ensure students are equipped with the right skills for high-demand careers, including nursing, counselling, learning disability support, and domestic abuse intervention, to name a few.
The tour continued into the Construction and Engineering facilities, where Maya explored the iSTEM and Construction Skills Centre on the campus, and some of the latest industry-standard equipment, including a robotic arm, 3D printers, and scanners—resources that enable students to develop advanced technical competencies. With a curriculum tailored to industry demands, Preston College plays a pivotal role in supplying highly skilled professionals to key sectors across the region and beyond.
Maya also had the opportunity to meet students and staff from the Counselling team. The department offers counselling courses from Level 2 up to degree level, providing clear progression pathways for those seeking a rewarding career in mental health and/or counselling services.
Simon Nixon, Principal and Chief Executive of Preston College, added:
“We are proud to be part of the Lancashire and Cumbria Institute of Technology, which reinforces our role as a provider of high-quality technical, employer-led education. Our investment in the very latest technologies, combined with our strong industry partnerships, ensures that our students gain the expertise required to thrive in high-skilled careers of the future. Maya’s visit highlights the importance of continued collaboration between government, education, and industry to bridge skills gaps and drive economic growth in our region. It was a pleasure to show her round our facilities, and we look forward to working with her in the years to come as part of our shared mission of improving skills and opportunity.”
Preston College remains committed to providing outstanding technical education, fostering employer partnerships, and breaking down geographical barriers to learning through flexible delivery models. By creating clear pathways to employment and progression, the college is positioning the North West as a leading region for digital, engineering, and health technologies.
For more Information about IoT courses at Preston College visit Institute of Technology (IoT) – Preston College
