Further education colleges sit at the heart of local economic growth, providing the technical skills, practical training, and employer links that businesses rely on. In Cheshire and Warrington, Reaseheath College plays a central role in that system, delivering high-quality vocational education across sectors that are critical to the region’s economy.
Against that backdrop, Reaseheath College recently hosted Ben Fletcher, the Conservative candidate for Cheshire and Warrington Mayor, for a visit focused on skills, workforce development, and the future of technical education in the area.
The visit highlighted the breadth of Reaseheath’s provision, from agriculture and land-based industries to construction, engineering, and emerging technologies. Discussions centred on how colleges like Reaseheath are responding to skills shortages by working closely with employers and tailoring provision to real labour market demand.
Ben Fletcher met with senior leaders at the College to discuss the importance of a skills system that is locally driven, flexible, and aligned with business needs. There was a shared emphasis on moving away from one-size-fits-all policy and ensuring that funding and decision-making support outcomes, not bureaucracy.
Sean Houlston, Governor at Reaseheath College, said:
“Reaseheath is a cornerstone of our local skills system. It delivers practical, high-quality training that supports employers and equips people with the skills they need for real jobs. If we are serious about growth and productivity in Cheshire and Warrington, colleges like this must be treated as economic infrastructure and backed accordingly.”
He added that Reaseheath’s strength lies in its close relationship with industry and its ability to adapt provision as economic needs change. The visit underlined the critical role that Reaseheath College continues to play in supporting local businesses, developing talent, and driving long-term economic success across Cheshire and Warrington.
