Colleges in ‘closer links’ talks
BIANCA MURRAY bianca.murray@menmedia.co.uk @BiancaMurray88
TWO of East Lancashire major colleges are in discussions about ‘collaborating’.
Accrington and Rossendale College and Burnley College say they are discussing ‘the possibility of a more collaborative approach to education’ across their areas of work.
The discussions are part of a national review into further education colleges, which has been criticised by Hyndburn MP Graham Jones.
Mr Jones said: “This is being forced on colleges through the government’s area-based reviews.
“A series of studies have been undertaken by the Lancashire colleges which are keen to work together for the benefit of all students to see how they can mitigate the worst of the government proposals.”
Accrington and Rossendale College said they cannot yet stipulate what this will mean for students and staff.
A spokesperson said: “At the heart of these discussions are the best interests of students, our employers and the East Lancashire community.
“The purpose would be to increase their capacity of our existing high-quality education and skills offer to meet current and future needs and to ensure long-term financial resilience.
“Combining the successes and strengths of our two organisations opens up a wealth of opportunities for current and potential students, their families, employers and the communities we serve.”
The college, based on Broad Oak Road, added that both colleges were strongly committed to the towns in which they are based and to the wider East Lancashire area.
Their spokesperson added: “While the precise nature of any potential collaboration cannot yet be predicted, there is an opportunity to transform and strengthen the further education and university opportunities available to the area while maintaining the government’s value for money.”
A spokesperson for Burnley College said: “In line with many colleges in Lancashire, Burnley College and Accrington and Rossendale College are discussing the possibility of collaboration.
“This is aligned with Government strategic direction and the national Area Review process for further education colleges.”
Coun Ken Moss, Hyndburn council’s portfolio holder for education, leisure and arts, said: “I have heard rumours about this for a while.
“I will view this with an open mind, it could be very positive step for local education.”