Colleges shine the way for UK, says PM

TWO of Oldham’s colleges are key to the UK’s economic recovery, according to Gordon Brown.

The Prime Minister heaped praise on Oldham 6th Form College and the Oldham College after they were honoured for being among the best in the country.

Principal at Oldham 6th Form College Nick Brown and the Oldham College principal Alun Francis were invited to Downing Street after achieving outstanding grades.

The praise comes as the Government looks to further education and sixth form colleges to persuade more teenagers to carry on studying‚ until the recession is over. An extra 34,000 places were created in classrooms or on training courses across England last autumn, under what ministers called a “September guarantee”‚ of a studying place for every 16 and 17-year-old.

Nick Brown said: “We are a beacon college and hopefully we will be opening the first of its kind science centres soon which will be really exciting.

I think colleges do a really difficult job. For Oldham the two colleges working together and the work we do is going to regenerate our town to a vibrant economy. With successful colleges the university will grow and flourish.”

Mr Francis added: “Having two colleges performing at this level in Oldham is outstanding.

“It is not only delivering excellence, but adult employment and support for businesses. It is important we get things right.

Speaking at the No 10 reception, the Prime Minister said: “These colleges are among the very best and most improving in the country.

“I am hugely impressed by their commitment to helping people get the skills, the training, and inspiration to achieve their full potential. The principals, staff and students should be very proud of their achievements.

“Colleges are at the heart of their communities, helping people through the recession and key to the UK‚s economic recovery — training the next generation of engineers, scientists, teachers and designers.”

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson added: “These colleges are playing a major role making sure people have the skills they need to fulfil their potential and drive the economy forwards.”