Jack Stopforth MBE

The University of Cumbria is an extraordinary asset and is growing in influence both in Cumbria and Lancaster. Generations of ‘cradle to grave’ employment in agriculture, coal mining, steel making, shipbuilding and latterly nuclear power, led to a tradition of children leaving school before A-Levels and working with local employers. The county’s four colleges of further education consistently supported vocational training, but higher education options were severely limited. The University of Cumbria has filled that gap and is a key anchor in the county’s political, social and economic life. It’s investments in new and repurposed campuses and ancillary facilities are, arguably, the principal drivers in regenerative change and social inclusion. The University is committed to excellence coupled with fairness and inclusivity and continuously refreshes the curriculum to ensure that it is relevant to students and the community.