College partners are a class act (From Warrington Guardian)

College partners are a class act

MORE choice and greater flexibility is now offered to Runcorn sixth formers than ever before - thanks to a unique partnership.

Runcorn Collegiate was officially launched this week at a special ceremony.

Halton College, Runcorn Sixth Form College and St Chad's RC High School have teamed up to give students a wider range of specialist courses, resources and facilities.

St Chad's headteacher, Arthur Graley, said: "We already share and collaborate on marketing, course planning, staffing and transport.

"Today's event reinforces our shared commitment to providing the best possible range of choices for pupils in Runcorn."

A cyber caf, science and language laboratories, drama and dance studio, gym, learning resource centre and refectory are just some of the many shared facilities.

A joint open night is being held on Wednesday, February 4 so students can have a look round and see what is on offer.

A free shuttle bus transports students from Runcorn Old Town to the new shared college site as well as to many other activities.

Halton MP Derek Twigg, Graham Talbot, Halton Council's executive director of education and Elaine Bowker, director of learning programmes at the Learning & Skills Council pledged their support.