Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) and Strode College have announced their intention to merge in a significant step they say will enhance educational services and opportunities for students and communities across the region.
Both Boards of Governors unanimously agreed to pursue this merger, which is subject to due diligence and final approval from the Secretary of State for Education.
The proposed merger aims to create a new group structure, allowing both BTC and Strode College to maintain their individual culture, values, ethos, and identities while benefiting from centralised strategic support.
The colleges said the collaborative framework would provide the resources and capacity to improve student experiences, offer enhanced opportunities for staff, employers, and the wider community and ensure financial sustainability for both institutions.
“By bringing together two high-performing colleges, we can strengthen the educational landscape for the communities we serve,” said Andy Berry CBE, Principal & CEO of Bridgwater and Taunton College. “Our collective capabilities will enable us to unlock new opportunities for students, employers, and staff alike.”
While the merger process is still in its initial phase, with due diligence underway, both colleges are committed to ensuring a smooth transition. The planned target date for merger is next year, providing ample time for consultation with key stakeholders and ensuring that the integration is seamless for everyone involved.
In the meantime, it will remain “business as usual” at both institutions, with no immediate changes to day-to-day operations, roles, or responsibilities.
“We look forward to collaborating with our stakeholders throughout this transformative process and working together to shape a prosperous future for education in our region,” added Dr John Revill, Principal and CEO of Strode College.
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