Why Now?
Paul Richards, chair of the UniQ steering group and Deputy Vice Chancellor of Staffordshire University explains:
“What started out as an education partnership between the city’s three main further and higher education providers rapidly broadened its scope. We realised the importance of education in the future of the city and the ability of the education partners to drive immense and far-reaching change
“UniQ is so much more than new buildings. We have set out to drive change across the city - to change peoples’ expectations and aspirations, raise achievement in schools and ensure both students’ and employers’ needs are met right here in the heart of the city.
“It is a key part of the entire region’s regeneration. By raising educational achievement we are creating a skilled workforce capable of taking our existing business community forward and capable of attracting new businesses to the area.
“We are investing time, energy and money in the city because we think it’s a great place to be. We have high hopes for the future and that future starts with UniQ.”
“The economic story of Stoke on Trent shows just how important UniQ will be in restoring pride and economic stability to the city.
“Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire have been through tough times. The challenges facing the ceramics industry and the decline of traditional sectors such as the coal industry have hit local communities hard and left the workforce facing an uncertain future.
“It led to high levels of deprivation and poor performance in terms of skill levels compared to the rest of the region and nationally.
“But now the tables are turning. North Staffordshire is undergoing economic transformation. “As businesses become established, relocate here and grow, they will need a capable workforce - educated and trained to the highest standard.
“Hence the need for UniQ - which will see key education providers working together to raise aspirations and raise achievement meeting the needs of employers and ensuring economic stability.”