Senior leaders from Burnley College travelled to the House of Lords this week as part of a high-profile Burnley Bondholders delegation, taking the borough’s message of ambition, innovation and strength directly to Westminster.
Principal, Jason Faulkner and Neil Burrows, Director of Skills and Innovation, joined over 50 civic and business leaders to champion Burnley’s role in shaping the economic plan for the North and to ensure the town’s voice is heard at the highest level of policymaking.
The visit showcased the pivotal role Burnley College and Themis play in driving skills development, supporting employers and strengthening the regional economy. As one of the leading education and training providers in the North West, the College is central to building the skilled workforce that powers Burnley’s economy.
Speaking following the visit, Neil Burrows said:
“Burnley is built on industry, innovation and hard work. Themis at Burnley College is proud to be at the heart of that progress, developing the talent and technical excellence that local and national employers rely on.”
The delegation emphasised that Burnley is a borough that leads from the front. From its industrial heritage to its modern advanced manufacturing base, the town continues to demonstrate resilience, ambition and global competitiveness.
Burnley College is also playing a key role in the town’s growth as a university centre, widening access to higher education and creating real pathways for social mobility. As a growing university town, Burnley is attracting investment, raising aspirations and ensuring local people can build successful careers without leaving the borough.
Principal, Jason Faulkner added:
“Our message at Westminster was clear. Together, we are louder and stronger. We have the partnerships, the work ethic and the communities. Investing in Burnley means investing in skills, productivity and long-term economic growth”.
By speaking with one united voice, Burnley is influencing national conversations and ensuring that towns like ours are placed at the centre of future policy decisions.
Burnley is not standing still. It is shaping its future, building opportunity and proving that when education, business and community work together, the impact is powerful.
