THE DEPARTMENT for Business, Innovation and Skills has now approved the merger between Thurrock & Basildon College and South East Essex College, creating the new ‘South Essex College of Further and Higher Education’ from January 1st 2010.
Principal and Chief Executive of the new South Essex College Jan Hodges, said: “We are incredibly excited to hear this news from the government. The new college, specialising in both further and higher education, will bring so many more learning and career opportunities to young people and adults, to businesses and to staff across South Essex. Our focus will be on our learners and on delivering excellence in teaching and learning.
“Working closely with other education and training providers we can ensure the curriculum offer is more comprehensive and coordinated across the whole of South Essex”.
Chair of Thurrock & Basildon College Richard Launder, commented: “We are delighted the merger is going ahead and believe it will ensure the long term success and sustainability of Further Education in the area”.
Chair of South East Essex College Peter Pickford added: “It’s a real win-win all round. The new College can build on best practice and will be in a better position to offer more specialist courses, more degrees and more skills based training for businesses which will really help strengthen the local economy”.
