The University of Salford and The Sixth Form Bolton strengthen ties to create new opportunities for students

The agreement was formally signed at The Sixth Form Bolton on Wednesday 14 October by Paul Ward, Director of Skills and Regional Engagement at the University of Salford, and Stuart Merrills, Principal of The Sixth Form Bolton.

The partnership will bring the University and College closer together, supporting students to develop the skills, experience and confidence needed to succeed in higher education and the workplace. Through employer engagement, mentoring, industry-led projects, specialist learning opportunities and tailored progression support, students will gain valuable insight into future career pathways. 

The collaboration will also strengthen links between education and industry, promote apprenticeship opportunities, support staff development and help drive regional skills growth by connecting more learners with opportunities in priority sectors and high-quality employment.

Paul Ward, Director of Skills and Regional Engagement at the University of Salford, said: “We’re delighted to formalise our partnership with The Sixth Form Bolton. This agreement is about creating meaningful opportunities for young people and helping them see the full range of possibilities available to them after college. By bringing together the expertise of the College and the University, as well as our strong connections with industry, we can give students more opportunities to experience university life, engage with employers and explore different routes into higher education, apprenticeships and employment. We want students across Greater Manchester to feel that university is an exciting and achievable next step, and partnerships like this enable us to start those conversations earlier and help young people make informed and ambitious choices about their futures.”

Universities and colleges play a vital role in driving economic growth, widening opportunity and tackling some of society’s most pressing challenges. By working more closely together, they can create seamless skills pathways for learners, strengthen employability, support lifelong learning, and deliver greater impact for regional economies and communities.

Stuart Merrills, Principal of The Sixth Form Bolton, said: “We are delighted to be working in closer partnership with the University of Salford. Our priority is to ensure our students are informed, inspired and well prepared for whatever they choose to do after college, and this agreement will create even more opportunities for them to explore their options. Being able to experience the university campus, engage with subject specialists and employers, and learn more about the different pathways available will be incredibly valuable for our students. We look forward to developing the partnership and creating opportunities that will support their aspirations and future success.”