College mergers will deter students, NUS claims

The National Union of Students (NUS) has warned that thousands of students could be squeezed out of further education if plans for college closures and mergers go ahead.

Whilst the government has advised that it wants ‘fewer, larger, more resilient and efficient providers’, the NUS has argued the move could mean more travel and increased expenses, deterring students from further education.

The union has launched the FE Unplugged campaign, which calls on students to make their opinions known to the review teams, which will decide how the sector will be restructured.

The NUS highlights that if plans were to move forward, implications would mean a reduced choice of colleges, staff job losses, bigger classes and longer more expensive journeys.

Shakira Martin, NUS vice-president for higher education, said: "What I am frustrated about is that this is really about the cuts being made to the sector. The government's rhetoric is all about making bigger, stronger colleges but the everyday student doesn't know what this means. I want learners to be at the heart of the process."

The union also believes not enough students are aware of the plans and so hopes the campaign will not only raise awareness about the move but encourage students to step forward.

Martin added: "Students should be encouraged to say what they think and need and bring awareness of the reviews to local communities.”

Martin Doel, Association of Colleges chief executive, said: "The country needs strong, resilient and locally responsive colleges to provide high quality technical and professional education. Further education and sixth form colleges will be essential if the recovery is to be sustained through the development of a highly skilled workforce.”