A pioneering package of training, state of the art facilities and cutting-edge adult courses has been launched as part of the multi-million-pound Future Skills Institute at Truro and Penwith College.

The College’s 19+ career-driven learning options will now sit under the Future Skills Institute, with training developed in collaboration with employers and in line with the local skills strategies of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly LEP, Cornwall Council and Cornwall Chamber of Commerce.

The Institute includes the University Centre Truro and Penwith and its 19+ Career and Professional Development offer, each of which is benefitting from multi-million-pound infrastructure investments to support the future skilled workforce of Cornwall.

The new £7.3 million Valency Building at Truro College played host to the launch event, where it was officially opened as part of the South West Institute of Technology, with a speech from Jason Bradbury from TV’s The Gadget Show.

College principal, Martin Tucker, said: “The Future Skills Institute puts Cornwall on the map as a destination to learn, work, recruit, invest and innovate in the future growth sectors of our economy.

“Our goal is to develop and retain highly talented people to work and live in Cornwall, with employer collaboration ensuring courses and qualifications meet the needs of quality local careers.

“In line with the Government’s Levelling-Up paper, that pledges the number of people successfully completing high-quality skills training will have significantly increased in every area of the UK by 2030, the Future Skills Institute is already responsible for multi-million-pound investments that are benefitting the future of Cornwall.

“Thanks to the Institute working in partnership with employers and embracing new technologies, Cornwall’s workforce is now at the forefront of regional and global innovation. The future starts here.”