Ludlow College form partnership with HCT (From Ludlow Advertiser)

Ludlow College form partnership with HCT

8:00am Thursday 4th October 2012 in News

THE future of Ludlow College has been secured in a deal which will see it forming a partnership with Herefordshire College of Technology.

The college has been working with the Education Funding Agency and Shropshire County Council to enhance and increase post 16 education and training opportunities in the area.

College managers and governors recognised the need for further investment and supported the agency and council in launching a formal, competitive process to identify potential investors.

A search for a partner began in June and has now been concluded with discussions with HCT to develop a plan for partnership going forward.

The move is intended to ensure continuing developments of post-16 provision in Ludlow and surrounding areas.

Ludlow College has already demonstrated commitment to the local economy in the provision of new courses, such as catering and hospitality, and travel and tourism.

Jonathan Davis, Principal of Ludlow College said the development from the Herefordshire College of Technology will improve the education and training available in Ludlow.

“This is a very exciting development for learners, employers and communities,” said Jonathan Davis.

“The investment by HCT will strengthen and build on the work of the Alliance of South Shropshire Education and Training (ASSET) which involves the schools and colleges in south Shropshire and whose aim is to deliver high quality education locally.

“I am really looking forward to working with colleagues in HCT to continue to build on our expertise and develop high quality A-level and vocational provision in Ludlow”.

Ian Peake, principal of HCT said his college is pleased to be involved in a partnership that will hopefully end speculation about the future of Ludlow College.

“This partnership is a very exciting development which will secure the long-term future of Ludlow College as a centre of excellence for learning,” he said.

“This will invest a considerable amount of time, energy and financial resources to provide a truly outstanding learning experience.”

The partnership has been welcomed by Shropshire council.

“We see this as a positive move for the continued and enhanced availability of post- 16 learning programmes for our young people in Ludlow and south Shropshire,” said Councillor Cedilla Motley, cabinet member for learning and skills.