Home improvements for Wirral children’s workforce

Cultural ambassador Mike McCartney has unveiled Edge Hill University's newly refurbished Wirral Outreach Centre.

Artist and photographer Mike - brother of The Beatles' legend Paul McCartney and was himself part of the theatrical and poetic side of the Merseybeat era as a member of Scaffold - officially cut the ribbon at a special ceremony on Thursday 16^th September to mark the opening of the improved facility.

He said: It was nice to see the Wirral Outreach Centre so bright and cheerful, plus full of dedicated, friendly people. Thank you very much to Frith McCormack and the fabulous teachers."

The Outreach Centre in Bromborough has been enhanced with two new teaching rooms and a dedicated student library as well as better office accommodation for staff.

These latest improvements will enhance the learning experience of teachers and teaching assistants enrolled on the part-time Edge Hill programmes and are part of the University's commitment to investing in its physical campus.

Frith McCormack, Wirral Outreach Manager, said: "Staff who are employed in the schools, colleges and early years' settings in Wirral are busy people, but are keen to learn more, to advance their careers and make a difference to the lives of the children here in Wirral.

"We recognise this and have jointly invested in the refurbishment of the Wirral Outreach Centre, which enables our children's workforce to study on programmes that are closer to their workplace and home.

"I'm delighted that Mike McCartney was able to take the time to have a look at the improved facilities at the official opening. He was suitably impressed with the work we are doing here to offer professional development to the school workforce."

The University and Wirral Borough Council are working in partnership to offer Wirral children's workforce a free year of undergraduate study or the first 60 credits of a Master's degree free of charge.

Lynne Hayes, Consultant Leader for Continuing Professional Development and Commissioning at Wirral Borough Council, said: We are very proud on the continuing strengthening of our partnership with Edge Hill University and look forward to the Centre flourishing this year."

If you're interested in becoming a student, come along to the next informal open event on 19^th October to find out more. The event is from 4pm to 7pm at the Centre in Acre Lane, Bromborough. Alternatively, please contact Frith McCormack on 0151 346 6683 or email frith.mccormack@edgehill.ac.uk.