Gordon Marsden MP for Blackpool South and Shadow Minister for Higher and Further Education and Skills, visited Beaumont College in Blackpool to meet staff and students and see the fantastic work being carried out at the campus.

Beaumont College of Further Education, which is based in the Health and Wellbeing Centre on Highfield Road, provides a person-centred curriculum to young people with physical and learning disabilities, ages 19 to 25.

During the visit Mr Marsden was given a tour of the college’s facilities, discussed the curriculum and watched a showcase of work from a dance session.

Mr Marsden said: “I was really struck by the dedication of Laura and the other tutors at Beaumont. It is a challenging job but the passion and hard work from her and other colleagues shone through. I could see from the smiles on the students’ faces that they enjoy the curriculum and other activities they do there.

“When I was there, some of the students performed a dance routine, which they had choreographed themselves. Laura told me dance, music and other interactive forms of learning were a big part of the curriculum at Beaumont.  This particularly helps with their interaction skills when some go on to do work placements. One of these was Koby who has really gained confidence from his time here and has also been getting experience working in a charity shop.”

“Laura told me that the college works closely with Blackpool Council’s Transition team, but also local schools such as Highfurlong and Woodlands, who work with younger students. I was pleased to hear this is happening. These partnerships are vital for the students so they have a smooth transition through the various stages of their education and have the opportunities to succeed when they complete their studies.”

Laura Spencer Lead Tutor at Beaumont College Blackpool said: “We were delighted to welcome Mr Marsden to Beaumont College.

“It is always a pleasure to be able to showcase the work we do and share the enthusiasm of our students.”

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For further information contact Caroline Walker on 01325 363436