Bath College welcomes the EU Deputy Ambassador to meet work-ready learners

Bath College welcomed a senior European Union delegation to its City Centre Campus in Bath on July 10, 2026, hosted by the Mayor of the West of England Combined Authority, Helen Goodwin, to solidify ties between education and international partners.

Isabell Poppelbaum, Deputy Ambassador, met with learners, staff, and stakeholders to discuss future EU-UK cooperation under a potential new programme, Erasmus+ and Bath College’s role in developing work-ready skills across the South West.

During the visit, the delegation engaged with T Level students in Education, Engineering, and Digital Software, and apprentices in construction and carpentry. Learners shared their experiences of combining education with employment to explain how this model builds confidence and practical workplace skills.

Further discussions covered programmes like Erasmus+ and how it could expand opportunities for further education learners through international experience and additional career prospects.

Kevin Hamblin, Principal and CEO of Bath College, said, “We are proud to welcome international partners to Bath College and to show how we deliver real skills for real futures.

Our students benefit from a blend of academic learning and practical experience, shaped in partnership with employers. And initiatives like Erasmus+ can broaden their horizons.”

EU Deputy Ambassador, Isabell Poppelbaum, added, “Our mission to Bath highlighted the West of England's strong European outlook and the enormous potential for even closer cooperation in education, research, innovation and business.

Ultimately, the future of the EU-UK relationship will be built as much in places like Bath as in Brussels or London - strengthening the people-to-people ties at the heart of the EU–UK relationship."

Bath College works closely with local employers and authorities to create a curriculum that evolves in response to the West of England’s economic needs. With a focus on progression and employability, the college supports learners from all backgrounds.

This visit further deepens the international partnerships and promotes skills development across the region, and highlights Bath College’s role as a leading contributor to local growth and European collaboration.