New partnership signed between OneRen and the University of the West of Scotland will improve opportunity

The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) and OneRen have signed a new strategic partnership which will improve access and opportunity for students and staff across both organisations.

The partnership agreement was signed by Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice Chancellor at UWS, and Dr Victoria Hollows, Chief Executive of OneRen, on the site of the ongoing refurbishment of Paisley Museum.

The £45 million project is Scotland’s biggest cultural heritage project and provides an example of where both organisations can work more closely together. Working with OneRen’s museums team may provide joint research or placement opportunities which can be opened up to UWS students and staff.

The new museum is across the street from UWS’s Paisley campus, with adjacent public realm, and it is hoped that further close connections can be made between the neighbouring properties. The University of the West of Scotland is already a corporate partner in the Paisley Museum refurbishment.

The strategic partnership will allow for joint work across the local area’s primary schools, helping to inspire the next generation into education; identify training needs for staff through CPD and doctorates; develop joint research opportunities and collaboration on use of facilities and sharing expertise through subject matter experts across both organisations.

Dr Hollows said: “We’re delighted to enter into this partnership with the University of the West of Scotland and I have no doubt both organisations – and the wider communities we serve – will benefit from bringing together and sharing our knowledge, expertise and facilities.

“Both organisations are committed to tackling inequality and improving health and wellbeing through improved access to education and we will now look at how best to work together to achieve this. It’s also a hugely exciting time to come together, not least as we count down the days until Paisley Museum reopens, bringing with it a wealth of educational opportunities.”

Professor Miller said: “As a place-making institution, we are a University that’s proud to be part of our local communities. Our partnership with OneRen will foster closer relations; allowing us both to build upon our strengths to have greater and more meaningful impact in the area.

“This is an exciting opportunity for the University to forge stronger ties with schools and community groups; to exchange knowledge and skills and to inspire current and future learners. This partnership creates an environment in which we can demonstrate further our commitment to Paisley, Renfrewshire and beyond.”