A Decade of Building Futures – Preston College and Eric Wright Group Celebrate 10 Years of a Transformative Partnership

Preston College and the Eric Wright Group are proud to mark ten years of a dynamic and impactful partnership that has redefined education in construction for young people across Lancashire.

Since 2015, Preston College has partnered with the Eric Wright Group, delivering high-quality training and educational provision to learners across a range of programmes, including full-time study for our 16–19-year-olds, apprentices, and professional development for adults within the construction sector.

In addition, through their subsidiary group and Charitable Trust, the Eric Wright Learning Foundation (EWLF) over the past ten years, has opened doors to over 6,500 14–16-year-olds who have been able to gain early access to high-quality construction training, personalised support, and knowledge of the wide range of career pathways available within the construction industry.

Reflecting on this commemorative milestone, Simon Nixon, Principal and Chief Executive at Preston College, said: “This ten-year partnership exemplifies what can be achieved when education and industry come together with a shared vision.

“Over the past decade, the College and the Eric Wright Group have created opportunities that have not only prepared students for the world of work, raised aspirations across our communities, but has also enriched the learning experience for all construction students at the College.”

Catherine Ashcroft, Education Co-ordinator at Eric Wright Learning Foundation says: “At the heart of this partnership lies a shared commitment to inspiring and supporting young people to learn and develop skills in the construction and built environment industry. We are excited to build and develop our support and offering to many more young people in the future.”

A standout feature of the collaboration is the creation of a realistic, hands-on work environment at Preston College; a space designed in close consultation with the Eric Wright Group to mirror the standards, safety protocols, and working practices of a live construction site. This environment has become a cornerstone of the student experience, offering practical, hands-on learning that bridges the gap between classroom theory and industry reality.

The partnership has also played a vital role in promoting diversity and inclusion within the sector, with a particular focus on increasing the number of females entering construction careers.

Community-based learning projects have further extended the impact of the collaboration, bringing tangible benefits to local residents while giving students the chance to apply their skills in meaningful, real-life projects, shaping their career opportunities within the sector.

Diane Bourne Technical Director of the Eric Wright Group and also a Trustee of the Learning Foundation adds: “It’s a privilege to be part of this collaboration with Preston College; a partnership that has spanned the breadth of ten years. But what is wonderful to see is the progression and ambition of these students. Some have been with us since starting with the Foundation and have progressed through to apprenticeships, employment, or sponsorship with the Eric Wright Group.

“The wealth of opportunities that this partnership with Preston College creates for young people across the region is something we are exceptionally proud to continue, and we are excited to see what the future holds for the next generation entering the construction industry.”

Simon added, “We’re incredibly proud of what this partnership has achieved. By investing in the next generation of construction professionals, we’re not only supporting individual futures but also strengthening the industry as a whole.”

To celebrate the tenth anniversary, the Eric Wright Learning Foundation will host a special student celebration event later this year, coordinated by the College, the Eric Wright Group and supported by its supply chain partners.

As the partnership looks to the future, both organisations remain committed to innovation, inclusion, and excellence in construction education.