Somerset Council’s Leader, Cllr Bill Revans today (Friday 1 August), welcomed the formation of the University College Somerset (UCS) College Group.
The move sees Bridgwater and Taunton College and Strode College in Street merge to form the new group – one of the largest of its kind in the country.
Cllr Revans, who enjoyed a long teaching career in Somerset, said:
Those that thrive academically in our system often leave Somerset and go off to employment or education elsewhere. Those that remain have their opportunities held back, regardless of potential. Low aspiration is the root cause of Somerset’s poor social mobility. And Somerset’s poor economic inequality.
I am therefore hugely excited by the news that Bridgwater and Taunton College and Strode College will officially unite to form the University College Somerset College Group; a bold and ambitious step forward in ensuring the county is equipped for the future.
We have exciting opportunities with inward investment and jobs at Hinkley Point, Gravity, Leonardo and many others as well. I want local people to be prepared to make the most of these opportunities that are coming this way.
Importantly, UCS College Group has made clear its commitment to remain locally rooted. Each College, Bridgwater, Taunton, Cannington, and Strode, will continue to serve its community with dedicated leadership and support.
In short, this is more than a merger. It’s a powerful investment in Somerset’s people, places and future. I look forward to seeing the role UCS College Group will play in raising aspirations and transforming opportunities for generations to come in partnership with Somerset Council.
