MP pays visit to see how Mansfield college is coping during pandemic

Ashfield MP Lee Anderson visited Portland College, where he was shown around the complex by the principal Mark Dale and assistant principal Edward Johnstone.

Assistant principal Mr Johnstone said: “The college has responded well to the Covid-19 pandemic, working tirelessly throughout this period to continue delivering care and education services to the amazing young people we support.

"The staff here have been truly inspirational and have pulled together to make sure our learners get the most out of this year, using the campus and technology to explore new and innovative ways to engage and learn.

"In addition to our core business we have also been making PPE to support King’s Mill Hospital and preparing sandwiches for the Sutton-based ‘Let’s All Eat’ food bank.”

Over the past two years, the college has expanded and opened two hubs in Sutton-in-Ashfield and Mansfield.

These Portland Pathways hubs aim to support individuals to gain employment and businesses to recruit the right staff for their roles.

Lee Anderson MP said: “Portland College is a brilliant facility providing first class care and education.

"I look forward to further growth and developments at the college and across north Nottinghamshire as we enjoy the charity’s 70th anniversary year.

"Exciting projects ahead include a state-of-the-art sports hall and theatre, investment in accommodation and a fully-refurbished coffee shop.

"I will be doing all I can to ensure this college gets everything it needs to continue to be an important part of our community.”

The college is also planning to open a campus-based ‘Woodland Adventure Zone’.

The facility was supposed to launch in late March but was postponed. It will now open to the community for climbing, ziplining and other activities in late summer or early autumn.

As it stands, the college continues to provide access for a day a week to local schools and groups free of charge.

Visit www.woodlandadventurezone.com to find out more.