The IW played host to representatives from nine other UK Islands, as well as Secretary of State Michael Gove, over two days this week. 

The Islands Forum, the second ever to be held, was a chance for islands to discuss the challenges they face.

With the main focus being on jobs and skills, Mr Gove visited several Island businesses and projects, including Wight Shipyard in East Cowes.

Island MP Bob Seely, who helped to set up the forum, said it was about finding a common agenda and "using it to influence government to listen".

Isle of Wight County Press: Islands Forum meeting in Shanklin.Islands Forum meeting in Shanklin. (Image: Isle of Wight County Press)

For the IW in particular, he said it was an opportunity to get more support for places like the IW College.

He said: "Is a potential solution for us to to get government to help me persuade Southampton and Portsmouth Universities to engage more with the Island? 

"Not by taking our students to Portsmouth and Southampton but by coming here and making sure Islanders can do a three year degree course on the IW."

More to follow.