Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week at Cornwall College

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited Cornwall College Camborne on February 8th, marking a significant moment during National Apprenticeship Week. Accompanied by John Evans, the Principal and Chief Executive of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG), Sunak’s visit showcased the college’s commitment to vocational training and innovation.

The Prime Minister engaged with students from the motor vehicle, engineering, and electric vehicle courses, highlighting the institution’s forward-thinking approach to education. Particularly noteworthy were the college’s Battery Bay, described as a pioneering initiative and a first in the UK, and its exclusive Heavy Goods Vehicle training area, the only one of its kind in Devon & Cornwall, dedicated to advancing a critical sector of the workforce.

Sunak expressed his admiration for the talent and skill-sets of the apprentices, emphasising the importance of apprenticeships in kickstarting careers and allowing individuals to earn while they learn. “It was incredible to visit Cornwall College and I was blown away by the talent and skill-sets of the apprentices there,” Sunak remarked, praising the effectiveness of apprenticeships in providing practical, hands-on experience alongside theoretical learning.

Underlining the Conservative government’s commitment to apprenticeships, Sunak noted that since 2010, over 5.7 million apprentices have been trained across the UK, with Cornwall College playing a crucial role in this achievement. He stressed the alternative path to success that apprenticeships offer, negating the necessity of a university degree for career success.

TCCG’s reputation as the top performing college for apprenticeships in the South West and the leading further education college in Cornwall, based on all qualifications for all ages, was highlighted during the visit. John Evans expressed his delight at welcoming the Prime Minister, stating, “The visit highlights the vital role of further education colleges in bridging the skills gap and training the workforce of tomorrow”.

The Prime Minister’s visit, which included hands-on activities alongside George Eustice MP for Camborne, Redruth, and Hayle, underscored the government’s support for apprenticeships and vocational education as pivotal to the UK’s economic and educational landscape.

National Apprenticeship Week, an initiative by the Department for Education, celebrates the achievements of apprentices and their significant contributions to communities, businesses, and the broader economy, with Cornwall College Camborne at the forefront of this national celebration.