Peter Roberts, chief executive and principal designate of Leeds City College, met students and staff on April 1, to mark the merger of three of the city’s further education colleges.

Mr Roberts made his first visit to the campuses of Leeds City College since his appointment in February. Currently principal at Stockport College, Mr Roberts will take up his new post in July.

He said:
“I am delighted that I have been able to be with colleagues and students to mark this significant and historic milestone as the three colleges officially merge to become Leeds City College.

Over the coming months and years our aim is simple – to become one of the best further education colleges in the country. Given the current recession I expect Leeds City College to play a significant role in developing the economic skills that businesses and individuals need on both a regional and national scale.”

During his visit Mr Roberts found time to visit a special exhibition at Leeds City Museum to commemorate the histories of Leeds College of Technology, Park Lane College Leeds & Keighley and Leeds Thomas Danby College.

Students and employees of the three colleges transferred to Leeds City College yesterday (April 1 ). The new college will be the biggest educational institute in Leeds with 45,000 students and a turnover of £70m a year.

“19th century roots, 21st century future – The Leeds Colleges’ Merger Exhibition” is in the Thoresby Room at Leeds City Museum until noon on Easter Monday, 13 April 2009. Entry is free.

Image Caption :
Peter Roberts, chief executive and principal designate of Leeds City College with students who yesterday transferred to the new college. They are Jessica Bennett, Nicholas Allanach and Neil Fowkes.