Falmouth University and Truro and Penwith College working to strengthen Cornwall’s skills pipeline

Falmouth University and Truro and Penwith College have formalised a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reinforcing their shared commitment to developing skills, raising aspirations and developing a workforce that helps delivers growth for Cornwall.

The partnership helps create a connected education system for Cornwall that enables learners to progress confidently from school and college study into higher education, while ensuring that the skills developed align with the needs of local employers and the region’s economy. By strengthening these routes, the partnership aims to ensure that more learners build long-term careers within the region.

The University and Truro and Penwith College will work together to design and maintain clear, accessible progression pathways from Level 3 programmes into appropriate Falmouth degrees.

This will include outreach, workshops and engagement opportunities designed to build learners’ confidence, attainment and preparedness for higher-level study.

The MoU also commits both institutions to supporting staff development, professional learning and knowledge exchange opportunities. By building capacity across both organisations, the partnership aims to contribute to a more holistic and resilient regional education system.

In addition, Falmouth will seek to offer added benefits to the College community, including access to events and potential discounts on educational, skills and CPD provision — enhancing lifelong learning opportunities and strengthening community engagement.

Professor Emma Hunt, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Falmouth University, said:

“This partnership is about creating opportunity here in Cornwall. By strengthening progression routes, working closely with employers and aligning our ambitions, we can ensure that talented learners from across the region can access high-quality higher education and build successful careers without feeling they have to leave the county to do so.”

Martin Tucker, Principal of Truro and Penwith College, said:

“Truro and Penwith College is proud to be strengthening its partnership with Falmouth University to support the development of skills and talent across Cornwall. This collaboration will also create new opportunities for our students and staff through shared activities, experiences and professional development. 

“The creative industries are a major strength for Cornwall, and with the College as one of the region’s largest providers of creative education, it is a natural partnership with a university whose reputation in the creative sector is so well established.”