THE MAYOR joined students in making some creepy-crawly friends at St Helens College during a visit.

Mayor Cllr Stephen Glover joined Saints stars Kyle Amor and Josh Jones in paying a visit to the college to mark national VQ Day along with more than 400 students from across St Helens, Wigan and Knowsley.

The event was a national celebration of vocational qualifications, recognising their ability to give students the skills and knowledge which is vital to progress on to higher education or employment. The aim was to highlight the benefits and value of high-quality technical, practical and vocational learning.

Guests on the day were taken on a tour of the college, stopping in each department to participate in fun and interactive activities led by students and tutors.

These ranged from tasks such as cupcake decorating and pipe bending to getting their hands dirty handling snakes and giant African land snails.

They had the opportunity to have-a-go on a go-kart simulator, as well as using the media equipment the college has to offer.

College Principal, Dr Jette Burford, said: “This celebration of vocational qualifications has been extremely successful in providing young people with a knowledge of the opportunities open to them in the future, and the skills they need to access them.

"This is crucial for long term growth, in filling the skills gaps and shortages in our region. Only with appropriately skilled and trained people can we drive the UK economy forward.”

To find out more about VQs, contact St Helens College on 0800 99 66 99 or visit www.sthelens.ac.uk.