David Skaith, Mayor of the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, visited Scarborough TEC to witness how adult learners on the Yorkshire Coast are developing essential skills for new careers and supporting the regional economy.
On Wednesday, 18 March, David Skaith, Mayor of the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, toured Scarborough TEC to observe how adult education is transforming lives and supporting the regional economy along the Yorkshire Coast.
According to college staff, the mayor engaged with students and tutors across various departments to learn how the institution supports adults seeking to retrain, upskill, and secure employment in key local sectors. His tour began in the arts room with students enrolled in the Art and Design Foundation programme. Tutors explained to the mayor that the course is particularly popular with mature learners, equipping them with the confidence, practical abilities, and creative skills necessary to transition into higher education or creative careers.
Charlotte Clubley, an arts student at the college, expressed her enthusiasm for the mayor's hands-on interest in their work:
“I met the mayor! I liked watching him take part in making an origami cube for our exhibition at the Old Parcels Office Artspace. I taught him about my project, which is all about transilience and Japanese art.”
The visit then moved to the plumbing department, where the mayor was introduced to Hamza, an adult learner whose journey has taken him from training at the college to working in the plumbing sector. Staff noted that Hamza has now returned as a volunteer to support current students. Tutors highlighted to the mayor that adult learners like Hamza bring a profoundly positive impact to the classroom, improving both learning outcomes and peer behaviour.
Reflecting on the visit, Hamza stated:
“It was great to talk to the mayor about life as an adult student and what I have learnt. I hope to help Scarborough TEC more and educate the next generation in the future!”
In the bricklaying workshop, the mayor spoke with adult learner Noah about his educational experiences and even tried his hand at the trade. College officials highlighted that this practical demonstration aligns closely with the mayor’s broader vision of increasing the regional housing supply and ensuring Yorkshire Coast residents possess the construction skills required to take on these local opportunities.
Emphasising the importance of regional investment in education, David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:
"Our Adult Skills Fund is a key part of my commitment to ensuring people across York and North Yorkshire can access the training they need to succeed."
"By investing in sectors that drive our economy from creative industries to construction, we’re helping residents gain the skills that lead to good-quality jobs."
"With hundreds of courses delivered by more than 20 providers, we’re building thriving communities and a more prosperous future for our region."
Scarborough TEC staff reiterated the crucial role of adult education in retaining talent along the Yorkshire Coast and supporting the wider economy. Simon Gummerson, Campus Principal for Scarborough TEC, shared his thoughts on the successful visit:
“It was a delight to welcome the mayor to our campus today. We were keen to show him the talent we have here in Scarborough, and the role that adult education plays in retraining skilled workers and finding new opportunities to keep them here in the region.”
The tour ultimately demonstrated how the Scarborough college is fostering a skilled workforce, supporting individual ambitions while addressing the wider economic priorities of the Yorkshire Coast community.
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