Introductions Heather MacDonald

As Principal of Wakefield College, I am rightly proud of the tremendous successes of our learners on academic, vocational and work-based learning programmes. Our mission is to transform lives and build prosperity by attracting young people, adults and employers into learning, and by inspiring them all with excellent opportunities to develop their knowledge and skills. By fulfilling this mission and by working in partnership with others, we will ensure the future growth of our District.
We’re getting there. Wakefield College’s plans for a multi-million pound investment in state-of-the-art education and training facilities to transform our learning landscape are progressing at a fast pace. Work has started on our new campus, the Skills Xchange at Glasshoughton, and our vision for Wakefield City includes a purpose built Higher Education Centre. This is a timely opportunity as further education colleges take on the mantle of degree awarding powers.
And what do others think of Wakefield College? The Minister for Lifelong Learning, Further and Higher Education, Bill Rammell MP, was the guest speaker at the College’s recent Graduation Ceremony, and he took the opportunity to pay tribute to the dedication, commitment and enthusiasm of College staff and students. He said, “Wakefield College has a long tradition of providing high quality teaching and learning, enabling people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities to gain degrees.” Mr Rammell also praised the College for supporting young people as they enter adulthood and on the role we were playing in the educational regeneration of the District.


Heather MacDonald
Principal, Wakefield College