The future of environmental and ecological education has been secured following the signing of a contract between the Eden Project and The Cornwall College Group (TCCG).

The two organisations have jointly delivered courses through Eden Project Learning (EPL) for many years.

According to TCCG principal and chief executive, John Evans, the contract heralds a new era for training in the region.

He said: “Eden Project Learning courses have always focussed on the natural world and, thanks in large part to the range of species housed in the famous Eden Biomes, we’ve been able to give our students a truly unique experience.

“The signing of this contract is not just a formalisation of the great work undertaken by the Eden Project and The Cornwall College Group, it marks an important next stage of the types of course we run to best prepare, train and inspire the future leaders of the environmental and ecological sectors from all over the world.”

Eden Project board director, Peter Stewart MVO, added: “Can there be anything more important than growing the next generation of people who understand ecology and the ecosystem around us? This is why the relationship between Eden and The Cornwall College Group is so exciting.

“The signing of this contract cements the fantastic work of the last few years and gives our partnership the foundation to truly meet the changing face of environmental and horticultural science.”