Politicians visit to support #collegesweek2024

Former college lecturer Sam Rushworth, who hopes to be Bishop Auckland’s next MP, visited BAC today to help us celebrate #collegesweek2024.

Labour Party Parliamentary Candidate for Bishop Auckland Sam Rushworth (right) with Principal & CEO Shaun Hope.

The Labour Party Parliamentary Candidate for Bishop Auckland, who lives in the town and works at Durham University in research and innovation, met Principal and CEO Shaun Hope and other members of staff who were primed with testing questions.

Having worked as a part-time college lecturer while completing his PhD, Sam has useful sector experience and said he understands the challenges faced by colleges up and down the country.

He added: “As a former further education college lecturer I know how vital colleges are to the communities and regional economies they serve and I am very impressed with what I have seen and heard here today.

“I’m more than happy to add my support to the AoC’s campaign calling on the next government to focus on ensuring colleges play an even bigger role in an inclusive, tolerant, welcoming, strong society and a growing and productive economy.”

Shaun Hope with Paul Howell MP and SWDT General Manager Jonathan Hall

The Bishop Auckland College Group also hosted Sedgefield’s Conservative MP Paul Howell today, who visited our specialist engineering centre South West Durham Training in Newton Aycliffe.

In his latest visit to the centre, Mr Howell was given a tour of the engineering and plumbing workshops and spoke to apprentices, full-time students and staff.

The MP said: “Today’s visit reinforced just how important further education and skills training are to the regional economy. It's great to see the recent investment in new equipment, with the new Industrial Process Control training rig, coordinate measuring machine and CNC plasma cutter.

"I’m delighted to have also met the latest group of young engineers benefiting from the superb facilities and highly experienced staff here at SWDT.”

Other politicians visiting the college this week include Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen and West Auckland county councillor Rob Yorke.

#CollegesWeek2024 #LoveOurColleges