Duke opens Warrington’s new college

Feb 9 2008 by Laura Sharpe, Liverpool Daily Post

WARRINGTON’S new £27m Collegiate was officially opened by HRH The Duke of Kent yesterday.

After five years the college has changed the skyline of Warrington by demolishing its old 1960s tower block and replacing it with a state of the art campus off Winwick Road.

Home to the country’s first cabin crew training school and award-winning hair and beauty academy, the college also boasts a prestigious £5m business school.

The Duke, who is the Queen’s cousin, spent two hours touring facilities and meeting staff and students before he unveiled a plaque in the reception area.

HRH The Duke of Kent, said: “I’m delighted to be able to come here today. I’ve been to a number of colleges but I’m never seen one as modern and bright which has been exceptionally well designed.

“You are providing vital work and I’m delighted to declare the college officially open.”

Samantha Kirk, 20, a student studying art foundation, was chosen to present an original artwork to the Duke.

She said: “I presented the Duke with a landscape watercolour.

“I already had one version, which was based on my travels around New Zealand, but I didn’t think it was good enough so I spent two days creating another one.

“It’s amazing it’s going to be in the Royal collection.”

The new build was jointly funded by the collegiate, the Learning and Skills Council and the North West Development Agency.

Colin Daniels, chair of the Corporation (board of governors) said: “After three years planning and two years construction we all appreciate this is a special day in the life of the college.

“We are delighted the Duke has found time to visit us today.”