A government ministers joined university leaders, councillors, and researchers to officially open Hartpury University’s new £12.75 million University Learning Hub. Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister of State for Skills, visited the Gloucestershire campus
on Friday, June 5, to formally open the facility alongside local MP Matt Bishop and regional civic leaders. The hub centralises the university library, student support services, study spaces, classrooms, careers advice, and a café under one roof.
During the ceremony, Hartpury Vice-Chancellor Professor Andy Collop thanked project partners before inviting Baroness Smith to speak. The minister described the facility as an “inspirational addition,” praising its 24-hour access, collaborative areas, and stu-
dent support services. She emphasised that such facilities help students not just arrive at university, but thrive. Baroness Smith also lauded Hartpury’s seamless pathway between its college and uni-
versity provisions, noting its power to bridge further and higher education. Following the opening, guests took guided tours of the facility:
• Ground Floor: Dr. Lucy Dumbell showcased the Student Advice Help Desk and the
Achievement and Success Centre, highlighting how the social, welcoming environment supports both formal and informal learning.
• First Floor: Library Manager Emma Stevens demonstrated the digital resources, e-books, laptop loans, and automated systems
enabling round-the-clock study.
The minister and Mr. Bishop also met postgraduate researchers—including Cobi Baille (saddle fit), Libby Nicklin (medical microbi-
ology), and Wing Ng (agricultural engineering)—to discuss their work.
Reflecting on the launch, Hartpury gover-nor Robert Brooks reiterated that the institution’s dual college-university model provides an essential, accessible bridge for local learners, particularly those from smaller schools who might otherwise view higher education as out of reach. The new hub is set to become the focal point of campus life and career preparation.