Both Stratford-upon-Avon College and Solihull College and University Centre are delighted with the response to the public consultation on their proposed merger with hundreds of responses providing comments and constructive feedback to the proposed merger.
Andrew Cropley, Principal and CEO at Stratford-upon-Avon College, is delighted with the outcome of the consultation. “Such an overwhelming response proves that so many people throughout the local community and beyond are invested in the College’s future. The College values the opinions and ideas of staff, students and the wider community. I am particularly pleased with the overwhelmingly positive response from our own staff. We are delighted with the support received for our merger and look forward to an exciting future for Further Education in Stratford-upon-Avon.”
An impressive 73% overall were in favour, with only 2% against, the merger, which would enable the two colleges to maximise their combined strengths whilst ensuring Stratford-upon-Avon College maintains its current identity.
A local authority comment described a secure, successful post-merger future with financial stability: “The proposed merger appears to provide the essential ingredients to help Stratford-upon-Avon College realise its potential, underpinned by a solid financial base which Solihull College & University Centre is able to bring to the table.”
Local colleges and universities were equally positive: “Solihull College holds a strong and high quality presence in the region and we believe the merger to be an excellent way forward for Stratford-upon-Avon College, providing opportunities for both consolidation and potential growth.”
“The College has a good opportunity to further develop vocational Higher Education and higher and degree apprenticeship provision.”
Local employers went on to say: “This is a great opportunity for Stratford as it will widen the opportunities for students and businesses.”
With this part of the process now complete, the College remains on schedule to merge with Solihull College and University Centre on 19th December.
The Public Consultation Report has now been published and can be viewed at https://www.stratford.ac.uk/college-merger/
For more information on any of Stratford-upon-Avon College’s courses, please visit the campus during one of its upcoming Open Events on Friday 10th November, 5.30 – 7.30pm, and Saturday 11th November, 10.00am – 12.30pm.
