Staff from Nelson and Colne College invited members of the community to join them in 'A Celebration of Success' at Nelson's Pendle Technology Centre.

Since its doors opened, over 1,200 local people have gained new skills and over 500 have gained valuable IT qualifications thanks in part to the flexible timetable and learner support mechanisms such as one to one tutoring and creche facilities.

Kath Belton, college principal, said, "There has been a steady demand for IT courses, including practical training in computer hardware technologies -- and our new IT technician training is the latest progression route for learners seeking skills which enhance employment prospects.

"ESF funding through the Lancashire College Consortium has also enabled us to expand our facilities and offer free training to all residents of Pendle."

The centre is now also well established as an adult education centre and community courses such as cultural fashion, dress making, needlework, embroidery, basic skills, ESOL and drug awareness are also offered there.

The Pendle Technology Centre project was launched in February 2000 to meet the ICT skill needs of the local community and was funded with help from Pendle Partnership's single regeneration budget, European social fund and European regional development fund.

Further funding has been available through Pendle Partnership's SRB6 funding and the Learning and Skills Council.

The current funding comes to an end in July 2003. The college would like the project to extend its outreach activities to all our communities in Pendle beyond the funding expiry date of July 31 2003.