THE outgoing vice chancellor of the University of Cumbria says the young institution has achieved a level of maturity "that many would not have believed possible" since its launch in 2007.

The university – an associate sponsor of CN Group’s 2016 Golden Apple Awards – is witnessing unprecedented levels of investment under the leadership of Professor Peter Strike, who last year saw more than 4,300 students achieve degrees and other awards.

The university is investing £20m in its buildings and sites.

It includes £1.4m for science laboratories at Fusehill Street in Carlisle; a new gallery, library and performance space at its Institute of the Arts at Brampton Road, Carlisle; and plans for improved student accommodation in Ambleside and a multi-million pound upgrade at Lancaster.

Barrow-born Professor Peter Strike, who retires from his role this summer after five years at the helm, said: “More than 4,300 students achieved their degrees and awards last year and many will choose to remain in Cumbria, contributing to the economic success and regeneration of our communities.”

A key area of the young university’s success is teacher training. It remains one of the largest providers in the country, working with more than 2,000 UK schools.

It also trains a high number of health service professionals.

Staying true to one of its key principles being of and for Cumbria, the university has also positioned itself to help make a contribution to the growth of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects.

It is a partner in both the Nuclear Academy and the National College for Nuclear, which will help provide specialist training.

Cumbria University is also looking to expand and offer mainstream science subjects such as chemistry and biology.

There is currently no university provision in the county and therefore such a move will help retain local students and attract others to the area.

It is a move likely to please Professor Strike, who is himself a renowned scientist.

The geneticist is also pleased to report that the university’s research capabilities continue to grow.

He said: “The university’s research community is growing in size and stature with over 80 per cent of our activity of a standard recognised internationally.

“Work on the invasive grey squirrel, knee joint position sense, and occupational therapy in diabetes care. It shows it is grounded in the real world with a very real and immediate impact on people.”

Professor Strike joined the university in 2011, appointed after its early financial problems had been tackled.

His successor will be Cumbria University’s first female vice chancellor. Professor Julie Mennell, who is currently at the University of Sunderland, will take over in August.

Professor Mennell will be attending the gala dinner in October where the winners of the 2016 CN Group Education and Learning Awards will be revealed.

The university is sponsoring the Against All Odds and Outstanding New Teacher awards, two of this year’s 19 categories.

Nominations are now open for anyone who wishes to submit entries to the Golden Apple Awards.

The awards, which are also being sponsored by personal development and career guidance organisation Inspira, aim to recognise excellence across all fields of education, skills and training.

Categories include honours for apprentices, teachers, lecturers, headteachers, principals, support staff and primary and secondary schools.

The awards are free to enter and anyone can submit nominations.

Visit www.cneducationawards.co.uk for further information or email megan.norwood@cnmedia.co.uk to enter.

Nominations and supporting testimonials or information can also be posted to CN Group Education and Learning Awards 2016, CN Group Ltd, Newspaper House, Dalston Road, Carlisle, CA2 5UA, marked for the attention of Megan Norwood.