TWO educational bodies have teamed up to forge lasting links for the future.

Huddersfield University has signed a partnership deal with Huddersfield New College to work together on special projects, staff development and help student progression.

The memorandum of association pledges to widen opportunities to participate in education and raise the aspirations of students.

The agreement between the two institutions comes as figures show New College sends more students to the university for degree study than any other institution.

Entries in 2011 saw 380 youngsters apply – of which 142 accepted places.

Professor Tim Thornton, the university’s pro-vice-chancellor for teaching and learning, said: “The relationship between New College and the university is a long-standing and strong one.

“I can personally recall many excellent students of my own who came to us from an excellent preparation in their studies at New College, and I know this is replicated many times over across the institution.

“I am delighted to be part of this new formalisation of the partnership and know that it will ensure we are able to work even closer together to the benefit of young people in the area.”

New College principal Angela Williams, also welcomed the partnership.

She said: “We very much welcome this memorandum of association which formally recognises the long standing and strong working relationship between the University of Huddersfield and Huddersfield New College.

“We share a common purpose of providing students with a wide range of excellent academic and vocational progression routes in preparation for a competitive career market.

“This memorandum formalises our commitment to continued collaborative working with the university and the development of imaginative initiatives which will prepare our students thoroughly for a successful transition from college to higher education.”

The memorandum of association was signed as part of a Huddersfield University scheme known as CUSP – College, University, School Partnership – which cements links between educational institutions in the region.

It is intended to develop progression in subjects including media, physiotherapy and the law.