ANNE Milton, Secretary of State for Apprenticeships and Skills, saw the value of land-based education and learning during a tour of Askham Bryan College on Tuesday.

She was shown around the York campus by chief executive Catherine Dixon and chatted to students, apprentices and staff. Her visit coincided with National Apprenticeship Week.

The college, which specialises in land-based education, has more than 800 apprentices studying a range of subjects including veterinary nursing, agriculture and land-based engineering.

The Minister’s first stop was at the college farm where she saw students and staff busy with lambing. She then visited the Agri-Tech building where she met engineering students before moving on to the Animal Management Centre to see a range of species studied and cared for by students, and open to the public as part of the college’s Wildlife Park.

The Minister said: “I had a fantastic time at Askham Bryan College speaking to their brilliant apprentices and celebrating National Apprenticeship Week. This week is all about hearing how apprenticeships work and promoting the opportunities they bring.

“The college provides excellent, hands-on training and offers a range of exciting courses from Level 1 to 6. The apprentices clearly felt real enthusiasm for what they are doing and it gives them access to a huge variety of careers.”

Chief executive Catherine Dixon said: “We were delighted to welcome the Minister, particularly during National Apprenticeship Week. It was a fantastic opportunity to highlight the benefits of land-based learning, not only for our students but also to the local, regional and national economy. Apprentices and staff talked about the advantages of this type of learning which is a key strength of the College.

“We also showcased our further and higher education provision, demonstrating the range of opportunities for students, from foundation learning to degrees, all of which widens participation and enables young people to succeed irrespective of their background.

“At a time of significant skill shortages and low productivity, technical education, particularly in land-based subjects, is ever more relevant, and I am sure it was helpful for the Minister to see for herself the benefits of the education and learning we provide.”