The Isle of Wight College has welcomed senior representatives from a German vocational college as part of a visit celebrating more than 40 years of friendship and cultural exchange between the Isle of Wight and Coburg.
Representatives from Staatliches Berufliches Schulzentrum I Coburg, the State Vocational College in Coburg, visited the campus for a day of engagement focused on strengthening educational links and exploring future opportunities.
The connection between the Isle of Wight and Coburg dates back to the 19th century through Prince Albert, who was born in Coburg, and Queen Victoria, who made Osborne House their family home after purchasing it in 1845. This historic link led to the official twinning of the Isle of Wight and Coburg in 1983, a partnership that has continued for over 40 years.
In recent years, the relationship has been reinforced through reciprocal visits and shared cultural initiatives. In 2023, more than 30 representatives from Coburg travelled to the Isle of Wight for anniversary celebrations, with Isle of Wight councillors returning the visit in 2024.
During the latest visit, Principal Anja Golle and colleague Kai Fürst took part in a programme that included a guided campus tour, a visit to CECAMM – the college’s Centre of Excellence for Composites, Advanced Manufacturing and Marine – and a lunch hosted in the training restaurant.
A reception was also held with members of the Coburg Twinning Association and Isle of Wight Council representatives, where the college presented a framed picture of Osborne House as a symbol of the longstanding connection between the 2 areas.
The visit provided an opportunity to discuss shared approaches to vocational training, as well as potential future exchanges. The college is expected to welcome students from Coburg in July.
Fidelma Washington, Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO, has said:
“It was a pleasure to host our colleagues from Coburg and to showcase the talent, pride, and sense of community here at The Isle of Wight College.
“Cross-cultural education enriches both our staff and learners, and we look forward to building even stronger connections with our twinning town in the years ahead.”
The Isle of Wight College has expressed its gratitude for the continued partnership and says it is looking forward to further collaborative opportunities in the future.
