07.02.07
Government advisers visit the classroom

Business degree students at Cornwall College were given a practical insight into the world of manufacturing by a government advisory team this week. Manufacturing specialists from the South West Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) led a series of workshops giving students an insight into working in manufacturing.

Throughout the day, the degree students were offered a unique insight into how the world of manufacturing works, including logistics, supply, communications, marketing and purchasing. James Seligman, Head of Development at Cornwall College's Business School, explained the importance of the day: "Students are split into small teams and using Lego bricks to simulate their product they get to work on a fast-paced business model. Through role play they gain an insight into global business on a small scale. Once we have covered the processes on a small scale, we show them the real thing, with a field visit to the St Justin factory in Penzance, to put theory into practice."

The event was led by South West MAS specialist, Martyn Pearson. In his workshops, he stressed the fact that efficient processes in manufacturing leads to profit and business success. "Manufacturing is essential to the local economy. Ensuring a 'lean process' is essential business practice for any producer these days and critical to their success."

Dr Bryan Mills, Programme Manager for the Business Foundation Degree, said: "These students are the future of Cornwall. They will become the managers, directors and entrepreneurs that will keep Cornwall's industry alive. It is essential that from the very start, they learn the practical implications of trade and industry as well as the theory."

John Latham, Principal of Cornwall College said: "Currently we have approximately 40 students studying Business at a higher level and our Business Foundation Degree is unique to the county. It offers the very best practical insights into the world of trade and commerce, making graduates from Cornwall College very employable.

"Our students benefit from real work skills and experiences because they are an integrated part of their studies."

For further information contact Sarah Plant of Cornwall College on 01209 616100 or email sarah.plant@cornwall.ac.uk.

The Objective One Programme for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has invested in the Combined Universities in Cornwall (CUC) project, both Phase 1 and Phase 2, through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the European Social Fund (ESF). Cornwall College is a partner of the CUC.

Editor's notes:

As part of the Combined Universities in Cornwall Initiative and a University of Plymouth Partner College, Cornwall College offers over 100 university courses including the only Business Foundation Degree and Business Administration Honours Degree in Cornwall.

Cornwall College is one of the largest colleges in the UK with seven campus sites in Cornwall; these include Duchy College and Falmouth Marine School, the college offers the widest range of academic and vocational courses in the county, including higher education from teacher training to masters programmes.

Foundation Degrees are innovative degrees that are designed and delivered in partnership with employers to equip people with the relevant knowledge and skills for business.

Cornwall College is the only college in the South West with four Centre of Vocational Excellence awards in Food & Drink Technology, Marine Engineering & Technology, IT Systems and Tourism, Customer Care.

Clare Morgan
Media Relations Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Mobile: 07973 813647
Telephone: 01872 223439

cmorgan@cornwall.gov.uk

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