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Salford and Bolton partnership builds new skills links

Students with laptops and notebooks around a library table

What the agreement means for students

The Salford and Bolton partnership formalises plans for mentoring, employer engagement and support for students’ next steps. The University of Salford and The Sixth Form Bolton signed the agreement at the college on 14 October 2026.

The Salford and Bolton partnership agreement

Four students discussing coursework with laptops and notebooks in a library

The institutions signed a memorandum of understanding, an agreement setting out their intended collaboration. Paul Ward, the university’s Director of Skills and Regional Engagement, signed alongside Stuart Merrills, Principal of The Sixth Form Bolton.

The university’s announcement was published on 21 October 2026, a week after the signing.

The university presents the agreement as a way to strengthen the institutions’ relationship and create opportunities for students. Its scope includes learning, progression and links with employers.

Mentoring, employer engagement and industry projects

The planned collaboration includes mentoring, employer engagement, industry-led projects, specialist learning and tailored support for progression.

Careers support already available at the college

The Sixth Form Bolton’s existing careers provision provides separate background. Its careers programme page, checked on 23 October 2026, describes impartial guidance, work-experience opportunities and employability development through the Professional Growth Programme. It also describes support from several universities.

Students can book careers appointments through the college’s electronic booking system using their college Office 365 account. The college also states that careers support continues for the first 12 months after students leave.

Further study, apprenticeships and staff development

Students sharing notes around a library study table

The university says the agreement will support routes into higher education and employment, while promoting apprenticeship opportunities.

Staff development is another stated strand of the university and college partnership.

Sources

Questions about the agreement

When was the Salford and Bolton partnership signed?

The agreement was signed at The Sixth Form Bolton on 14 October 2026. The University of Salford published its announcement on 21 October 2026.

What activities does the agreement cover?

Planned collaboration includes mentoring, employer engagement, industry-led projects, specialist learning, progression support and staff development.

Which progression routes does the agreement support?

The university says the agreement will promote apprenticeship opportunities and support routes into higher education and employment.

How can Sixth Form Bolton students book careers advice?

As checked on 23 October 2026, students can book individual careers appointments through the college’s electronic booking system using their college Office 365 account.