CARLISLE College is now part of one of the country's largest education and training groups in the UK after merging with Newcastle-based NCG.

A statement from the two organisations today says that NCG will "support the continued development of provision" across Carlisle and the surrounding area.

"This will ensure the greatest security for staff and students and ongoing investment in Carlisle College," it added.

The college will continue its focus on providing what local employers and students need to develop skills for the area's economy.

Steve Salkeld, acting principal of Carlisle College, said: "This is a hugely exciting time for the college that will bring new opportunities and the ability to respond to new skills needs in the area, with NCG’s full backing for growth and development.

"Carlisle College will retain its identity and name and all provision from our city centre campus.

"NCG fully shares our commitment to putting learners and the community first, and offers us a very strong and positive future bringing continued investment to help us meet the needs of learners, employers and the community."
Joe Docherty, chief executive of NCG, said: "It is our clear goal to help grow and develop the current offer for the benefit of learners and employers in Carlisle and we are pleased to be able to back that with the expertise and capacity of a major national group."

NCG is one of the UK’s largest providers of education, training and employability.

The group is made up of Newcastle College, Kidderminster College, West Lancashire College and Newcastle Sixth Form College as well as training providers Intraining and Rathbone Training.