LOG IN17th December 2007
College Merger Halted
The Corporation of Stourbridge College regrets to announce that proposed merger plans with Dudley College have been halted to enable Dudley College to focus on its Ofsted re-inspection.
At the same time, Stourbridge College - officially declared good by Ofsted - will be concentrating on its aim to become outstanding, providing the best quality education and training for learners and employers in the area.
Significant progress has already been made towards making Stourbridge College outstanding.
Since the inspection in November 2006:
- Success rates have risen by 10%
- Training delivered to local employers has increased two fold
- There has been a 20% increase in high grades at A Level
- More school leavers than ever are choosing to learn at the college
Chair of Stourbridge College Corporation Rosemary Slater said: "We are disappointed the merger plans with Dudley College are not going forward.
"The Corporations were unable to reach an agreement on the appointment of the Principal Designate of the merged college.
"It became clear the immediate focus for Dudley College was to appoint a principal to take forward their re-inspection ambitions. Unfortunately, this move effectively rules out any merger plans.
"Even though there will be no formal merger, both Corporations are fully committed to working collaboratively to deliver first class further education services locally.
"Stourbridge College has a great future and will continue to provide better and better quality education in the borough of Dudley."
The College is also investing in a £40million landmark building to provide new educational facilities in Brierley Hill, which is due to open in 2010.
Stourbridge College is holding an open day on Saturday 19 January 2008, when prospective learners and their parents are invited to visit and find out more about the College for themselves.
