Council backs proposed college merger
Herefordshire Council has pledged its support for a proposed merger between Herefordshire College of Technology and the Holme Lacy Campus of the Pershore Group of Colleges.
The Holme Lacy Campus currently operates as a specialist college serving the land-based sector. It is a focus for agriculture, forestry, animal care, equine studies, outdoor education and sport and has its own working organic farm, stabling facilities and equine yard.
The college also offers a range of commercial short courses covering subjects such as chainsaw, first aid and pest control. Herefordshire College of Technology delivers courses in blacksmithing and farriering, welding and fabrication at the Holme Lacy campus.
Following proposals for the dissolution of the Pershore Group of Colleges, Herefordshire Council has written to the Learning and Skills Council pledging its support to the transfer of the Group’s Holme Lacy operations to Herefordshire College of Technology.
The council believes the merger can only benefit education provision in Herefordshire and that it has the potential to improve access to a wider range of education and training opportunities to a broader range of students.
Councillor Don Rule, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “The proposal presents a significant opportunity to maximise future curriculum development and learning opportunities in Herefordshire.
“The proposed merger would complement the existing provision offered by both colleges. Learners wishing to mix and match their programme of study would be able to access Herefordshire College of Technology’s main campus at Folly Lane.
“We look forward to working with the college to expand the range of training opportunities for 14-19 year olds and would welcome further discussions on how we work together to meet the needs of our young people, particularly in relation to transport and access issues.”
The council’s response has been issued to the Local and Skills Council as part of a consultation exercise.
