AN OFSTED chief was in attendance to open up a brand up facility at York College yesterday - which provides a range of support services.

The new 'Your Experience Hub' at the college was opened by VIP guest, Ofsted chief inspector of education, children’s services and skills, Amanda Spielman.

Speaking on the day, Amanda said the facility was a "fabulous initiative" and that she hoped the students will make the best use of it during their time.

Ms Spielman said: "Colleges take 16-year-old school leavers - some of them high-flyers and some of them not, and they take that mixed group of young people and bring them into adulthood. Colleges really shape a future for them. It’s a magical and transformative thing."

The Ofsted inspector was also joined by York College principal, Lee Probert, who shared his joy at the opening of the facility.

"Opening the Your Experience Hub today cements our collective commitment to ensuring that York College students have access to the best quality student support, alongside the highest quality teaching, to achieve their qualifications and progress", Mr Probert said.

Completed during the October half-term, the hub represents a major investment in facilities at York College. The facility has created a number of new progress coach jobs. Progress coaches are on-hand to help students gain the skills, understanding, knowledge and attributes that will lead students to their next steps, whether that is onto further or higher-level study or into employment.

The facility provides a full range of support service for students at York College, including health and wellbeing, course information, careers, transport and funding.

Thursday’s opening represents part of an ambitious five-year strategy at York College, with further investment planned to 2025. The ongoing expansion of facilities will meet new and emerging needs to support the city and to deliver its skills priorities.