The Association of Colleges (AoC) has developed a ‘Love Our Colleges’ campaign which takes place from Monday, 15 October to Friday 19 October 2018.
The invaluable contribution that FE makes to the economy is underpinned through transforming lives through learning. During this week colleges across the country will be hosting events to showcase the many things that colleges do, day in and day out, to transform lives and improve their communities.
Whether it’s through traditional educational routes such as A levels, via high quality technical education such as the Nuclear Engineering, basic skills or lifelong learning, colleges help people of all ages and backgrounds to make the most of their talents and ambitions. Rooted in local communities, they are crucial in driving social mobility and providing the skills to boost local and regional economies. However, there is currently a reduction in education funding once a student turns 16, whether they are in a school sixth form or a college. ‘Love Our Colleges’ is calling on the government to increase 16-19 funding by 5% a year for five years. It is also asking the Department for Education to provide exceptional funding, ring-fenced, to support teachers’ pay.
At Bridgwater & Taunton College we will be showcasing the College through our two Open Evenings running in Bridgwater and Taunton which will shine a light on all the brilliant work that goes on in our college every day.
Andy Berry, principal at Bridgwater & Taunton College said:
The FE Sector has been an engine for economic growth for decades. Our college has served its’ community for over 160 years, working with many thousands of employers, community organisations and, of course, the Somerset community.
We regularly hear about the significance of skills in building a first class economy and this campaign is designed to showcase FE Colleges as the solution that, with proper investment, will continue to have a transformational impact on economic success.
The cost of the investment sought is a fraction of the value of its return to the community and the economy – #LoveOurColleges
