The new Learning Centre located within the Carrick Buildings in Girvan has been officially opened by the Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Councillor Andy Hill and Diane Rawlinson, the Principal of Ayr College.

Speaking at the opening of the Learning Centre, Councillor Andy Hill said: "The Learning Centre shows what can be achieved when mutually beneficial partnerships are formed, such as the one between the Council and Ayr College.

"By working in partnership, to share resources and deliver learning and training opportunities to people in the Carrick area, the two organisations are providing the best possible service they can and making maximum use of their available resources.

"I hope that local people will make full use of this excellent learning facility, and that whatever course they follow they will enjoy it."

The Centre offers a wide range of opportunities through the flexible learning unit, including languages and Information Technology.

Diane Rawlinson, Principal of Ayr College said: "To see so many people now making use of this wonderful facility is extremely gratifying. Through this partnership we have been able to continue to support education and training in Girvan and ensure an Ayr College presence here for the future. I hope that the local community makes this learning centre its own and works with Nicola Hendry, our Learning Centre Manager to help shape provision here to meet local training needs"

In order to ensure as many people as possible become aware of the facilities on offer, the Learning Centre hosted an open week, to enable local people to drop in and visit the building, and find out what courses and support services are available. The centre staff also conducted a survey to ask local people about the learning opportunities they would like to access and the centre invites enquiries from the community on an ongoing basis.

The Centre has a newly created Information Zone, which is a one-stop shop for information offering advice and guidance on:

•  Learning and training opportunities
•  Childcare
•  Income maximisation
•  Transport
•  Employment
•  Volunteering opportunities
•  Materials from Careers Scotland, Jobcentre Plus and community groups.

November 2005