Colleges hold potential merger talks

Sunderland College and Hartlepool Sixth Form College are in talks about a potential merger.

The possible merger would create a “super-institution” for education and it is said will secure financial stability for Hartlepool Sixth Form College.

Ellen Thinnesen, principal and chief executive of Sunderland College, said: “Hartlepool Sixth Form has a very long and important history and role within the town, it is vitally important this continues.

“I am delighted that our proposed merger resolves the Sixth Form’s current financial challenge and supports its continuation along with the provision of high quality, academic choice for the young people of Hartlepool.

“The merged colleges will see the development of a financially-stronger, more resilient organisation into the future and will lead to further investment for the people that matter the most - the young people studying in Hartlepool and Sunderland.

“We believe this merger will make Hartlepool Sixth Form, Sunderland Sixth Form and Sunderland College even stronger and will raise the bar higher in terms of the standards, quality and the educational experiences we are able to offer young people.

“Both colleges are looking forward to working together, learning from each other and ensuring that our individual strengths are maximised across Hartlepool and Sunderland.

“Wewillalsolooktowork closely with neighbouring education institutions and the local authority to ensure the merger does not lead to unnecessary duplication in provision, but rather complements and strengthens the educational offer in Hartlepool.”

Chairman of the Board of Governors at Sunderland College, Rob Lawson, added: “Nationally the sixth form college and the further education sector have and will continue to face significant challenges now and into the future with regards to financial viability, while at the same time continuing to raise standards.

“Our geographical closeness to Hartlepool, the cultural alignment of the two organisations, our commitment to partnership working and the vast educational opportunities that the merger will unlock, mean this really is a perfect fit.

“It’s a fantastic outcome for both organisations.”

Consultation on the merger runs from today until 5pm on Friday, April 28.

Details can be found online at www.sunderlandcollege.ac.uk.