A SHOCK announcement revealing Evesham New College will close from September has been met with ‘disappointment’ from MP Nigel Huddleston.
A statement issued by Warwickshire College Group (WCG) on Tuesday (March 25) said the college had faced ‘student recruitment and financial viability challenges’ in recent years meaning all education provision will move to its Pershore College campus.
Courses and facilities at the college have significantly reduced since a decision in 2021 to refocus educational provision on technical skills and apprenticeships, which has now created a ‘suboptimal learning environment’.
Sara-Jane Watkins, CEO and principal of WCG, said: “By consolidating our provision at Pershore College, we can offer our students access to modern facilities, a wider range of courses, and an enhanced social experience.
“This move is about ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their full potential.” She added the college would work closely with trade unions to minimise impact on jobs.
The news comes on the back of WCG being saved from insolvency last December by a £1 million government bailout following years of financial struggle.
MP for Droitwich and Evesham Nigel Huddleston confirmed he had been in dialogue with Ms Watkins about the proposed closure.
“I am disappointed to hear Evesham College may close, because I would always prefer extra investment in education in my constituency.
“I know many constituents will likewise be concerned and I encourage everybody with an interest to take part in the consultation,” he said.
The MP welcomes further investment at Pershore College but added it was ‘vitally important’ young people could go to college in a ‘convenient location’ and study subjects they were interested in.
He added he would remain in conversation with WCG as proposals develop.
There are currently 190 students enrolled at Evesham New College.
The college group has 1,300 staff across six colleges in Worcestershire and Warwickshire with responsibility for roughly 13,000 students, including over 2,000 apprentices.
Visit https://wcg.ac.uk/eveshamconsultation for more information and to have your say on the consultation, which closes on May 30.
