New Chief Executive Sees First-Hand How West Midlands Remains Focussed on Learners

LSC chief executive Geoff Russell took a close-up look at proposals for state-of-the-art new learning facilities at Solihull College during a packed schedule on his first official visit to the West Midlands.

Plans to redevelop the college's main campus just outside Solihull town centre were among the eight schemes nationally that received the go-ahead in March following a three-month review of all FE estate redevelopment schemes hoping to attract LSC capital investment.

Principal Brenda Shiels talked Geoff through the details of the project before taking him on a tour of departments to meet learners and tutors.

Geoff said: "I was very impressed by the commitment of learners, tutors and managers alike at Solihull College. These are challenging times for all of us in the sector but we remain focussed on maintaining the strong partnerships we have built with colleges and other providers and continuing to work together to provide the opportunities that will enable learners to fulfil their potential."

During the day, Geoff also visited Salts Healthcare in Aston, Birmingham to see how a partnership with Train to Gain provider is delivering new skills and qualifications for over 100 employees and concluded his visit to the region with a reception for college principals.